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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/lift-youth-no-max-lifts

What does the current AAP report say about one-rep max testing for young athletes?

No 1-rep maxes until the skeleton is mature.

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  1. Do it unsupervised
  2. It can be safe with qualified supervision ✔
  3. Skip it until skeletal maturity

Why: The AAP says 1RM testing can be safe and useful when qualified professionals follow established testing protocols.

Huh, didn't know that: A 1RM test can help set training intensity and monitor progress in a resistance-training program.

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My son wanted to test his max. So we tested his max video game time instead.
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References

Answer: It can be safe with qualified supervision. The AAP says 1RM testing can be safe and useful when qualified professionals follow established testing protocols.

  1. AAP Clinical Report: Resistance Training for Children and Adolescents publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/145/6/e20201011/76942/Resistance-Training-for-Children-and-Adolescents
    Research indicates that 1 RM testing in children and adolescents can be safe and efficacious when established testing protocols are followed by qualified professionals.
    Checked 2026-10-13.

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