Affiliations: [a] Metabolism, Nutrition and Exercise Laboratory,
Physical Education and Sport Center, Londrina State University, Londrina, PR,
Brazil | [b] Exercise Science Department, Truman State University,
Kirksville, MO, USA | [c] School of Physical Education, Pernambuco University,
Recife, PE, Brazil | [d] Rio Grande do Norte Federal University, Natal,
Brazil
Abstract: BACKGROUND: The one-repetition maximum (1RM) test is the most
widely used method to analyze muscular strength. However, the 1RM reliability
may be dependent on previous resistance training experience. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of the study was to analyze the reliability of
1RM test in detrained men with previous resistance training experience. METHODS: Sixty-seven men (21.1 years, 71.4 kg, 174.1 cm,
23.5 m/kg^{2}) were recruited and allocated to one of the three groups,
according to their previous experience in resistance training: Novice (n=29,
from 1 to 6 months), Intermediate (n=19, from 7 to 12 months), and Advanced
(n=19, from 13 to 24 months). All subjects performed the 1RM test in the
bench press, squat, and arm curl in four sessions. At each session the subjects
performed three attempts to reach a peak strength level for each exercise. RESULTS: Significant increases (P< 0.05) in maximal strength
between the first and fourth sessions were consistent for each group in bench
press (8.3% to 9.8%), squat (14.9% to 18.5%), and arm curl (7.6%
to 10.0%) with no group-by-time interaction. CONCLUSION: Despite two years of previous RT experience men need at least two 1RM sessions to
achieve accurate maximal strength baseline scores, Thus, a minimum two-trial
1RM assessment may be the standard for determining a maximal strength baseline
in order not to underestimate achievement.
Keywords: Muscular strength, resistance exercises, familiarization, motor performance, learning effects
