Comparison of performance in one repetition maximum test using two different protocols

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare the performance in one repetition maximum (1RM) testing using two different test protocols in a bench press exercise. A total of 17 weight-trained men performed two protocols to determine the 1RM bench press exercise. In protocol A, the weight should be lifted for one repetition per attempt until fail on the next attempt. In protocol B, subjects should lift the weight for two repetitions in each attempt and the heaviest weight that could be lifted until a concentric muscle action fail at the second repetition was considered as representative of 1RM. Each subject performed the two protocols and the testing order was randomly assigned and balanced between the subjects. Significant difference between protocols A and B was found. The results suggest that protocols A and B using by 1RM testing in bench press exercise were not interchangeable.