Training Max
Calculator.
Find the right training max percentage for your program. Most percentage-based programs use 85–90% of your 1RM as the training max.
85% = conservative start · 90% = standard · 95% = aggressive
What Is a Training Max?
A training max (TM) is a percentage of your true 1-rep max used as the base for calculating all training weights in percentage-based programs. Instead of training off 100% of your max, you train off 85–90%, which keeps the weights manageable and leaves room for technique, volume, and recovery.
Which Percentage Should I Use?
85% — Best for beginners to percentage programming, lifters returning from injury, or anyone who tends to grind and fight reps. Most conservative, most sustainable.
90% — The standard for most intermediate programs including 5/3/1 and similar. Good balance of challenge and recoverability.
95% — Used by advanced lifters with excellent technique and recovery. Leaves little margin for bad days.
How the Primal Press Protocol Uses Training Max
The Primal Press Protocol calculates your training max on Day 1 and uses it to auto-generate every training weight for all 12 weeks. You enter your 1RM once — the entire program is calculated from that number automatically.