Abstract

In sports practice and science, the intensity control of strength training is frequently based on maximum strength, which is usually determined by the one repetition maximum (1-RM) strength test. However, conducting a 1-RM strength test is somewhat critical because of the high stress on the musculoskeletal system and the high injury risk, especially for sportspersons involved in recreational sport. Furthermore, studies suggest that the 1-RM is inadequate for intensity control. The standard practice of applying percentages of the 1-RM for the deduction of the intensity of strength training may lead to an over- or under exertion of the respective sportsperson. The aim of the present study was to investigate the reliability of determining strength training intensity on the basis of 1-RM strength tests. Twenty-six participants (25.9 ± 3.4 years, 181.2 ± 5.1 cm, 79.4 ± 8.7 kg), with at least one year experience in strength training, completed two study sessions with the exercise long dumbbell bench press. In session one, the 1-RM was determined. In session two, the maximal possible repetitions at 90 % 1-RM were raised. The results showed a relatively high spread of the maximal possible repetitions (CV: 36.2 %), which corresponded with the findings of previous studies. The maximal possible repetitions at a defined training intensity, deduced from the 1-RM, varies not only among several sportspersons, but also between different strength training exercises. Consequently, the 1-RM should not be the basis for intensity control in strength training. Alternatively, multiple repetition maximum (M-RM) strength tests should be used. Verf.-Referat