RM Chart — Rep Max Percentage Table
An RM chart maps each rep count to an approximate percentage of your 1RM. Coaches and lifters use it to quickly translate a program that says "5×5 at 85%" into an actual weight on the bar.
The percentages below are averages derived from widely used formulas (Epley, Brzycki). Individual variation exists — some lifters are more fatigue-resistant — but the table is a reliable starting point for most trainees.
For a personalized version based on your actual performance, enter a set into the StrengthBase calculator and check the generated RM table.
Standard RM Percentage Table
1RM100%
2RM97%
3RM94%
4RM92%
5RM89%
6RM86%
7RM83%
8RM81%
9RM78%
10RM75%
11RM73%
12RM71%
How to Use
- Find your target rep count in the chart (e.g., 5RM = 89%).
- Multiply your known 1RM by that percentage to get the working weight.
- Round to the nearest plate increment and load the bar.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are RM percentages the same for every lift?
- They are close, but lifts with more muscle mass (like squats and deadlifts) sometimes allow slightly more reps at a given percentage than isolation movements.
- Why does my real rep count differ from the chart?
- Genetics, training history, and muscle-fiber composition all influence fatigue resistance. The chart is an average — your personal curve may shift a few percent.
- Can I use this chart for programming?
- Yes. Many programs prescribe loads as percentages of 1RM. Use this chart as a quick lookup or let StrengthBase compute exact weights for you.
- What about reps above 12?
- Percentage estimates become less reliable above 12 reps because cardiovascular endurance and technique breakdown play a larger role. Treat high-rep estimates as rough guides.