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Using the NSCA load chart, someone squats 160 pounds for 8 reps. What is their estimated one-rep max?

About 200 pounds, since 8 reps is about 80% of a one-rep max.

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  1. About 168 pounds
  2. About 300 pounds
  3. About 200 pounds ✔

Why: A one-rep max is the most weight you can lift for one full rep. The NSCA chart says 8 max reps is about 80% of 1RM, so 160 pounds points to about 200.

Huh, didn't know that: The same chart lists 10 max reps as about 75% of one-rep max.

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My one-rep max is a sandwich. I can only lift it once before it's gone.
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References

Answer: About 200 pounds. A one-rep max is the most weight you can lift for one full rep. The NSCA chart says 8 max reps is about 80% of 1RM, so 160 pounds points to about 200.

  1. NSCA Training Load Chart (PDF) www.nsca.com/contentassets/61d813865e264c6e852cadfe247eae52/nsca_training_load_chart.pdf
    if an athlete completes 8 repetitions of the squat at 160 lbs, the estimated 1RM would be 200 lbs
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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