Validity of the Two-Point Method for Estimating Squat and Bench Press One Repetition Maximums

PURPOSE: To assess the validity of the two-point method for estimating one repetition maximums (1RM) in the squat and bench press exercises with varied pairs of loads. METHODS: Thirteen resistance-trained men (age: 21.7±0.4 years; height 1.74±0.07 m; mass: 82.9±9.5 kg; 1-repetition maximum (1RM) back squat: 149.9±20.7 kg; 1RM bench press: 114.8±18.5 kg) performed three trials of squat and bench press using the following percentages of 1RM: 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80%. The order of the loads was counterbalanced across the participants. The mean vertical velocity of the barbell during the concentric phase of each repetition was recorded using a 3-D motion analysis system (Vicon; 200 Hz). Varied loading pairs (20% & 80%, 30% & 70%, 40% & 50%, 40% & 70%,) were selected and regressions were created to estimate 1RMs. Analysis of variance was used to compare differences between the measured and estimated 1RMs for the squat and bench press. RESULTS: No significant differences were found (p>0.05) between estimated and measured 1RMs despite large range of mean differences in the squat (MD: 6.45 kg-27.47kg) and bench press (MD: 1.09 kg-4.32kg). CONCLUSION: The two-point method represents a useful means of estimating 1RM during the back squat and bench press exercises without inducing the fatigue associated with directly measuring 1RM. However, individualized force-velocity characteristics should be considered when utilizing the two-point method for estimating a 1RM.