As you know, I’m a avid believer of RMs - Repetition Maximums - or the maximum number of reps you can do without your form deteriorating - 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 aren't quite matching what the program recommends going with, and you're faced with choosing two KB's that allow you to do above 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 venture too much outside those ranges .
Many, if not the majority of guys use "good 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 around 10RM.
So you can stair-step your way up:
2x24kg -- 24+28kg -- 2x28kg -- 28+32kg -- 2x32kg -- etc.
Asymmetrical Loading helps identify side-to-side asymmetries, challenges your core in a fresh way, perfects technique, and improves systemic strength by plugging “strength leaks.”
Here’s How You Use Asymmetrical Bells:
RM test with the denser bell in your stronger hand. Rest 10 to 20 minutes , then repeat with the heftier bell in your dominant hand. (No weak sides—just powerful and more powerful.)
Write down each number. Use the smaller as your RM. website
Then alternate sides each set:
Set 1: More powerful/denser + Strong/lighter
Set 2: More powerful/less heavy + Powerful/denser
If you do an odd number of sets, start the next session with the opposite pattern so everything stays even .
Hopefully that helps and gives you inspiration on how to continue.
Stay Strong,
Geoff Neupert.