What a training max is, and how to set yours
The training max is the number a program takes its percentages from, set on purpose below your real max. How it is set, how it moves each cycle, and when to reset it.
Updated 27 October 2026 · 3 min read
Concepts guides
The ideas behind the numbers: training maxes, one-rep max estimates, levels.
Programming
How a program turns your max into the weights you lift each week.
Estimating maxes
Working out a one-rep max from a set of several reps, and how far to trust the number.
The Epley formula, and how far to trust it
How the Epley formula turns a set of several reps into a one-rep max, where it comes from, how accurate it is by rep range, and how to use it to pick working weights.
Updated 27 October 2026 · 3 min read