About Lift Max Calc

Lift Max Calc estimates one-rep maxes, builds percentage-of-max training tables, loads plates on a bar, and scores bodyweight-normalized strength -- all from real, published formulas, not a single guess dressed up as a number.

Where the numbers come from

One-rep max estimates use five published formulas -- Epley, Brzycki, Lombardi, O'Conner, and Wathan -- shown side by side rather than picking one and hiding the disagreement between them. Wilks and DOTS scores use the published 2020 Wilks coefficients and the 2019 DOTS coefficients respectively, cross-checked against multiple independent sources rather than transcribed from a single one. Strength standards are a commonly published bodyweight-ratio community reference, clearly labeled as that rather than as a study. Every formula and its source is documented on the page that uses it.

How to use the numbers

A calculated one-rep max is an estimate from a submaximal set, not a tested max. It's useful for programming percentages and set/rep schemes; it is not a number to attempt cold, without a spotter, on the assumption a formula guarantees you can lift it. Five formulas rarely agree exactly -- if you need a single number, this site defaults to Epley, but the spread between all five is itself useful information about how confident to be.

What this site doesn't do

It doesn't store what you enter, require an account, or replace coaching, a spotter, or medical advice. These are standard estimation formulas, not a substitute for in-person technique instruction or guidance from a doctor, especially if you have an underlying health condition or are returning from injury.