Fitness & activity · 316

One-rep max estimate

What rough one-repetition maximum follows from a submaximal lifting set?

Your numbers

kg
reps

Quick answer

What does the One-rep max estimate calculate?

What rough one-repetition maximum follows from a submaximal lifting set? This calculator uses weight lifted, and completed repetitions to estimate estimated one-repetition maximum immediately in your browser.

With the values currently entered, the result is 202.1 lbaverage one-rep-max estimate. It also shows epley estimate, brzycki estimate, and conservative 90% reference.

How to use the One-rep max estimate

  1. Replace the example values with your own numbers.
  2. Review the result and supporting figures as they update automatically.
  3. Check the formula and assumptions before using the estimate for a decision.

Inputs used

  • Weight lifted — entered in kg
  • Completed repetitions — entered in reps

One-rep max estimate formula

Average of Epley (weight × (1 + reps ÷ 30)) and Brzycki (weight × 36 ÷ (37 − reps))

Assumptions

  • The set used consistent technique and ended close to technical failure.
  • The estimate is most useful for sets of 2–10 repetitions and varies by exercise and person.

Practical guide

One-rep max estimate example and edge cases

What rough one-repetition maximum follows from a submaximal lifting set? Let's use a concrete example, then look at the assumptions that can move the answer.

Example: A practical one-rep max estimate scenario

For this example, use weight lifted of 80 kg, and completed repetitions of 5 reps. These are starting values, so replace them with numbers that match your situation.

Weight lifted
80 kg
Completed repetitions
5 reps

Calculated result202.1 lbaverage one-rep-max estimate

Start with average one-rep-max estimate. Then check epley estimate, brzycki estimate, and conservative 90% reference to understand what sits behind the main result.

Example results use the default display profile. The calculator above follows your selected country and units.

How to read the result

  • Read the main result first. The supporting figures for epley estimate, brzycki estimate, and conservative 90% reference explain how the estimate is built.
  • The method is Average of Epley (weight × (1 + reps ÷ 30)) and Brzycki (weight × 36 ÷ (37 − reps)). Keep the units consistent and use values from the same time period.

Edge cases worth checking

When weight lifted is unusual

The set used consistent technique and ended close to technical failure. Double-check this input before relying on the result.

When completed repetitions is uncertain

The estimate is most useful for sets of 2–10 repetitions and varies by exercise and person. Run a lower and higher value to see a useful range.

What changes the result most

Weight lifted

Measure weight lifted with the same unit shown beside the input. Convert first if your source uses another unit.

Completed repetitions

Change completed repetitions on its own first. This shows how strongly it affects the answer.

Try a different scenario

Small changes show whether the answer is stable or sensitive.

Weight lifted: 10% lower

72 kg

181.9 lbaverage one-rep-max estimate

Weight lifted: 10% higher

88 kg

222.3 lbaverage one-rep-max estimate

Completed repetitions: 10% higher

6 reps

208.2 lbaverage one-rep-max estimate

Common mistakes

Check weight lifted

The set used consistent technique and ended close to technical failure. Make sure this matches the number you enter.

Keep completed repetitions consistent

The estimate is most useful for sets of 2–10 repetitions and varies by exercise and person. Use the same units and time period throughout the calculation.

Do not rely on one one-rep max estimate scenario

Run a cautious case and an optimistic case. The range is often more useful than one exact-looking number.

Use this result well

Use it for

What rough one-repetition maximum follows from a submaximal lifting set?

Do not use it as

Use it for activity planning, not medical diagnosis or individualized health advice.