As you know, I’m a huge supporter of RMs - Repetition Maximums - or the maximum number of reps you can do without your form deteriorating - website in my programs.
“Geoff,
I've completed Maximorum and am currently working through the Kettlebell S&C Beta Test program. I'm wondering about this general question as it relates to how your programs prescribe running them given, e.g., a ‘5 RM in the double kettlebell clean and press’ as is the case with Maximorum.
Let's say you have a 7 RM with two 28KG kettlebells in the double KB clean and press, but then let's say you have a 2 RM or 3 RM with two 32KG kettlebells in the double KB clean and press.
Do you have a standard advice for this type situation, or any situation like this where the available weights and your RM don't correspond closely to what the program recommends going with, and you're faced with choosing two KB's that allow you to do beyond the program RM starting target, or under the program RM starting target?
You can typically "smudge" the RMs like this:
5RM -- 4-6RM
10RM -- 8-12RM
I wouldn't push beyond these boundaries.
Many, if not almost all guys use " decent enough " technique, which unintentionally leaves "reps on the table" during RM tests. So, slowing down to dial in technique can really help.
You can also use mix-matched bells. For example:
2x24 = 13RM, but 24+28kg =? Probably roughly 10RM.
So you can stair-step your way up:
2x24kg -- 24+28kg -- 2x28kg -- 28+32kg -- 2x32kg -- etc.
Asymmetrical Loading uncovers side-to-side asymmetries, trains your core in a novel way, perfects technique, and improves systemic strength by plugging “strength leaks.”
Here’s How You Use Asymmetrical Bells:
RM test with the more weighty bell in your more powerful hand. Rest 10-20 minutes , then repeat with the denser bell in your better hand. (No weak sides—just powerful and more powerful.)
Write down both numbers . Use the lesser as your RM.
Then alternate sides each set:
Set 1: More powerful/denser + More powerful/less heavy
Set 2: Lighter/stronger + Powerful/denser
If you do an odd number of sets, start the next session with the opposite pattern so everything stays balanced .
Hopefully that clarifies things and gives you suggestions on how to continue.
Stay Strong,
Geoff Neupert.