What is the recommended rest period between trials when determining 1RM?

The recommended rest period between trials when determining one-repetition maximum (1RM) is typically 3 to 5 minutes. This duration allows enough time for the muscles to recover sufficiently from the exertion of the previous lift. Recovery is crucial when attempting such maximal effort, as fatigue can significantly impair performance and lead to inaccurate results if the lifter is not adequately rested.

During this rest period, the body can replenish its energy stores, particularly adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and phosphocreatine, which are essential for short bursts of high-intensity strength activities. If the rest period is too short, the lifter may not be able to generate the same level of force in subsequent attempts. Therefore, the 3 to 5 minute range strikes a balance that supports optimal performance without compromising safety or effectiveness during the testing process. This approach helps ensure that the maximum strength testing reflects the lifter's true capabilities.