No need to test your max

Calculator for 1RM (one-rep max)

Find your max lift on any strength exercise without testing a 1-rep max. Use a submaximal load, perform reps to technical failure, and we'll calculate it for you.

Ex: bar weight + plates
How many reps you did with that weight until your form broke down. Use between 3 and 10.
Your Estimated 1RM
100 lbs
Average of the Epley and Brzycki formulas.
Epley 100 lbs
Brzycki 100 lbs
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Load table for workout planning

Based on your estimated 1RM, see how much to use for different goals.

Goal% of 1RMSuggested loadReps
Max strength90 – 100%–1 – 3 reps
Strength80 – 90%–3–6 reps
Hypertrophy65 – 80%–6 – 12 reps
Muscular endurance50 – 65%–15+ reps

1RM Percentage Chart

How many reps fit at each percentage of your 1RM, based on the NSCA chart (Baechle and Earle), with the load calculated from your result.

% of 1RMWeightPossible reps
100%–1
95%–2
93%–3
90%–4
87%–5
85%–6
83%–7
80%–8
77%–9
75%–10
70%–11
67%–12
65%–15

How it works

We estimate your 1RM using two of the most widely used formulas in strength training science.

Epley Formula

1RM = weight × (1 + reps ÷ 30)
More accurate for 7-10 reps. Used by strength coaches since 1985.

Brzycki Formula

1RM = weight ÷ (1.0278 − 0.0278 × reps)
More accurate for 2-6 reps. Published in 1993.

Use reps to failure

The estimate is only reliable if you trained to technical failure (couldn't do one more rep with good form). Without getting close to that, the estimate will be off.

Works for any exercise

Bench press, squat, deadlift, shoulder press, row — any strength training exercise with progressive overload.

Frequently asked questions

What is 1RM?
1RM (one-rep max) is the most weight you can lift for a single rep on an exercise with proper form. It's the reference for prescribing weights by percentage in strength training.
Is it safe to test your 1RM directly?
For beginners and intermediates, it's not the best choice: a direct max test requires solid technique, a long warm-up, and a spotter. Estimating from reps with a submaximal load gets close to the real number with far less risk.
Which formula is more accurate: Epley or Brzycki?
Both give nearly the same result up to 10 reps. Brzycki tends to be more accurate at low reps (2 to 6) and Epley at higher reps (7 to 10). That's why the calculator shows both and uses the average.
How many reps should you use for a good estimate?
Between 3 and 10. Above 10 reps the formulas miss more, because muscular endurance starts to matter as much as strength. In the study by LeSuer and colleagues (1997), the formulas were accurate for bench press and squat and underestimated the deadlift.
Can I estimate my 1RM without going to failure?
Yes. Note how many reps you had left (the set's RPE) and use the RPE chart, which estimates 1RM from weight, reps, and effort, without taking the set to failure.
How do I use 1RM in training?
Max strength: 90 to 100% of 1RM, 1 to 3 reps. Strength: 80 to 90%, 3 to 6. Hypertrophy: 65 to 80%, 6 to 12. Muscular endurance: 50 to 65%, 15 reps or more. The charts on this page show the weight for each range.
How often should I recalculate?
Every 4 to 6 weeks, or whenever your working weight feels too easy for the planned reps. Recalculating with a recent set keeps the percentages true to your current strength.

Other calculators

Calculate 1RM right in the workout, on your phone

Trainer Connect has a native 1RM calculator, shows your load progression in charts, and automatically flags PRs (personal records).

Start for free

Estimate based on a mathematical formula. Your actual 1RM may vary depending on technique, leverage, fatigue, and training. Use it as a guide, not an absolute number.