Comparative analysis of the number of repetitions at 40 and 80% of one repetition maximum at two different exercises realized by male and females

Abstract

The intensity has been considered to be a primary variable when designing strength training programs. Such variable is prescribed based mainly on percentage values of the maximum strength, which is usually measured through the test of one repetition maximum (1RM). The intensity is associated with a determined maximum number of repetitions (MNR) and it has been used in a generalized way to direct the weight training for different objectives. However, it seems that such generalization cannot be extrapolated to different exercises, neither for subjects with distinct training levels nor for training specificity. The purpose of this study was to determine the MNR for two different intensities, and verify if there are any differences between genders too. The study involved 15 male and 15 female subjects with an average training experience of 20.2 (± 5.5) months. The subjects performed the bench press and leg press 45° exercises at two intensities 40 and 80% of 1RM. There was a statistically significant variation of the MNR performed for these intensities comparing both exercises. Statistically significant difference was not verified between genders for both exercises and intensities. The results suggest that the prescription of the intensity considering the relationship between MNR and percentage values of 1 RM is not always adequate.