Keeping 1 Repetition Maximums (1RMs) accurate and up to date is essential for effective strength training prescription. Output provides several ways to monitor and update 1RM values - ranging from manual updates to real-time velocity-based estimation. This flexibility allows coaches and athletes to choose the workflow that best suits their context, whether during daily training, formal testing, or program reviews.
Below we outline each method, how it works, and when to use it.
1. 1RM Auto-Update & Manual Updates
Automatic Updates in the Capture App
Output uses the Mayhew et al. formula to detect when an athlete’s estimated 1RM has been surpassed.
If the system identifies a new 1RM based on set data, the athlete is prompted to update their record.
This keeps personal bests current without requiring formal testing.
Manual Updates in the Capture App
Athletes and coaches can edit the 1RM for any exercise directly in the exercise history screen.
Quick, individual updates are useful if testing is done outside of Output or if corrections are needed.
Bulk Updates via the Hub
Coaches can update 1RMs for multiple athletes at once through the Hub platform:
Go to Athletes
Select individuals
Choose Bulk 1RM Edit
Pick the exercise and input new values
Submit updates
2. Load–Velocity Profiling (LVP)
Load–Velocity Profiling provides a more detailed and research-backed way of estimating 1RM.
Protocol: Athletes perform 5 sets at progressively heavier loads (20–40%, 40–50%, 60–70%, 70–80%, and >80% of predicted 1RM), with maximal intent on each rep.
Profiling Chart in Hub: Best reps per set are plotted to create a load–velocity profile.
Minimal Velocity Thresholds (MVTs): Built-in, exercise-specific values are used to estimate 1RM. (e.g., squat, bench press, deadlift).
Comparison Over Time: Profiles can be tracked longitudinally to monitor adaptations, fatigue, and training effects.
For easier setup, the Capture App also provides Pre-Defined Velocity Zones to streamline profile creation.
Summary Table
Method | How It Works | Best Use Case |
Auto 1RM Update (Capture) | Formula detects new 1RM and prompts update | Seamless daily tracking of performance |
Manual Edit (Capture) | Update 1RM per exercise from history screen | Quick, individual corrections or updates |
Bulk Edit (Hub) | Coaches update multiple athletes’ 1RMs at once | After testing blocks or program reviews |
Load–Velocity Profiling (Hub) | Multi-load protocol estimates 1RM via MVT | In-depth profiling & longitudinal monitoring |
Best Practices
Formal assessments → Use bulk or manual edits after structured strength tests.
In-depth profiling → Use LVP periodically (e.g., once per training block) to get research-based estimates and track progress over time.
Combination approach → Many coaches use LVP quarterly while relying on auto-updates and velocity zones for ongoing monitoring.
By combining these methods, coaches can balance efficiency with accuracy, ensuring 1RM values are always up to date and training is optimally prescribed.