Whenever I use RPE in my training it looks like I’m under shooting it on camera and to observers.
If I do a set of 5@8, for example, it physically feels like I have two reps left in me with good form. However, people will scoff and tell me I had 4-6 left. Furthermore, when I film my sets they do look easy enough for 3-5 more (but with technical breakdown.)
Am I correct to assume when I train @8 that is 2 reps in the tank with solid technique?
Eh, I don’t think I’d take a hard line between “solid technique” and “technical breakdown” on most lifts. I think that’s really hard to define and, more importantly, judge.
Additionally, your reps in reserve will be influenced by technique, as the better it is the more efficient you’re going to be. In other words, technique is kind of baked into RPE already.
While you could choose to ascribe a higher priority to technique if you wanted to, I would define a set @ 8 as something that feels like a light 2nd attempt (if doing a single) or a set that is challenging, but not maximal with about 2 reps left in the tank.