← StrengthInterpretation guide

Strength Standards by Bodyweight: Use Ratios Carefully

Strength standards are comparisons, not diagnoses. The sample, exercise rules, age, sex, equipment, and training history all change the label.

Updated 21 Oct 2026Reviewed sourcesNo account
Start calculator
Interactive tool

Calculator

Choose your guidance

How much explanation would help?

Pick what feels comfortable. You can change this at any time.

How much explanation would help?
Quick start

A one-rep max, or 1RM, is an estimate of the heaviest weight you could lift once with good form. Enter a recent hard set; you do not need to attempt a maximum lift.

Show the key terms
1RM
Estimated maximum weight for one clean repetition.
Recent hard set
A set completed with good form that was close to your limit.
Training load
A percentage of your estimated 1RM used to plan working sets.
Useful context

Use a recent challenging set of 2–10 clean reps for the most useful estimate.

↳

Enter your details and calculate. The result will appear here.

Your inputs stay in this browser. Anonymous usage events never include input values.

01

Ratios are simple but incomplete

Dividing load by bodyweight is easy to understand, but strength does not scale linearly with body size. DOTS and federation formulas try to model that relationship for competition totals.

02

Technique defines the lift

A competition-depth squat, touch-and-go gym bench, machine press, and partial repetition should not share one standard. Record exercise variation and range of motion with the number.

03

Use your own trend first

Consistent progress at stable technique is a stronger coaching signal than crossing an arbitrary label. Compare with populations only for context.

FAQ

Questions, answered plainly

What is a good bench press?+

“Good” depends on bodyweight, sex, age, technique standard, and training age. Compare like with like and prioritize your trend.

Are strength standards goals?+

They can provide context, but goals should also reflect health, sport, injury history, and preference.

Do I need an account to use the calculator?+

No. The web calculators are free and run in your browser without an account.

Sources and further reading

Sources behind the formulas and explanations.

  1. IPF formula model evaluation
  2. Hevy: understanding estimated 1RM
App preview · iOS coming soon

Your next hour, at a glance.

A look at what’s planned for BurnHour Fasting. The iOS app is in development.

Design previewYOUR FASTING WINDOW12h 24m

Elapsed of a 16-hour fast

Eating window · 12:00 PM–8:00 PM

Be first to hear when it launches