Research

Mixed

One-repetition maximum (1RM) tests and isokinetic peak torque (PT) tests produce conflicting results for assessing alterations in muscle strength, meaning they are not equivalent measures of individual responsiveness to resistance training.

Do not use different testing methods to evaluate the same training program. If you train with free weights or machines (isoinertial), test using 1RM on similar movements. If you use an isokinetic dynamometer, stick to that for tracking. Using 1RM to judge an isokinetic program (or vice versa) will likely lead you to believe the program failed or succeeded when it actually produced standard adaptations, just measured differently.

GoodRefutesHIGH confidence
In conclusion, professionals and researchers involved in strength assessment should be aware that the results obtained by PT and 1RM are not equivalent when evaluating individual responsiveness and/or the efficacy of an intervention on muscle strength, as the results obtained show large variations and can be even conflicting.
Paulo Gentil et al. · Journal of Human Kinetics · 2017

Why this rating

Randomized controlled trial with adequate sample size (n=27), rigorous statistical analysis (Bland-Altman), and clear exclusion criteria, though limited to young, untrained men.

Source

Isokinetic Dynamometry and 1RM Tests Produce Conflicting Results for Assessing Alterations in Muscle Strength

Paulo Gentil et al. · Journal of Human Kinetics · 2017

DOI 10.1515/hukin-2017-0019

rct · n=27Cited 57×
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DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10

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