Estimated 1RM versus actual 1RM

[wshaffer]

I've noticed that when I compute my estimated 1 rep max, if I happen to have an actual 1RM that I've tested recently for that lift, my estimated 1RM is always lower. Often the difference is only 5-10 pounds, which I figure is probably just within the error of the estimate, but occasionally it will be a bigger difference, perhaps 20 pounds or so. If this happens consistently for a particular lift, should I take this as a sign that I'm underestimating my RPE for that lift?

[Austin Baraki]

It could be, or alternatively you could just be better at performing singles and the percentages are not accurate for you in particular. Some have advocated for developing your own personal customized RPE chart for this reason, although it's probably overkill for most people.

[wshaffer]

Thanks! I think I probably won't worry about it - collecting the data to construct a personalized chart seems like it would be quite time consuming,and I'm probably better off just training.