1RM

Sports abbreviation · Fitness and Exercise

1RM
Stands forOne-rep max
CategoriesSports

1RM stands for One-rep max, a fitness and exercise abbreviation.

Heaviest weight a person can lift for a single complete repetition of an exercise with proper form. Strength programs prescribe loads as percentages of 1RM.

Example: Week 3: five sets of three at 85 percent of your 1RM.

Usage notes

Testing a true 1RM carries injury risk, so many lifters estimate it from lighter sets with formulas such as Epley's: weight times (1 + reps divided by 30). Powerlifting meets are essentially 1RM tests in the squat, bench press and deadlift.

More fitness and exercise abbreviations

  • AMRAP – As many reps as possible
  • BB – Barbell
  • BCAA – Branched-chain amino acids
  • BMR – Basal metabolic rate
  • BW – Bodyweight
  • C&J – Clean and jerk
  • DB – Dumbbell
  • DOMS – Delayed-onset muscle soreness
  • EAA – Essential amino acids
  • EMOM – Every minute on the minute
  • EPOC – Excess post-exercise oxygen consumption
  • FTP – Functional threshold power

See all 35 fitness and exercise abbreviations →