![]() Kramer and Fry emphasize that ongoing encouragement and communication with the client during this testing is crucial to obtain the best performance. The client should be allowed ample rest (at least 3-5 minutes) before each 1 RM attempt. The goal is to determine the clients 1 RM in 3 to 5 trials. ![]() At this point a small increase in weight is added to the load and a 1 RM lift is attempted. After a brief rest period, the load is increased to 60% to 80% of the clients estimated maximum, attempting to complete 3-5 repetitions. The test procedure begins with a warm-up of 5-10 repetitions at 40% to 60% of the clients estimated maximum. Kramer and Fry (1995) suggest the following protocol for 1 RM testing. The gold standard for muscular strength testing is the 1 RM. For optimal measurement and assessment, the testing should be very similar to the muscular fitness training. Strength and endurance are specific to the muscle group, speed of the contraction, type of contraction, and joint angle being tested (Heyward, 1991). ![]() Initially, personal trainers need to determine whether to test for strength or endurance, and then select the appropriate assessment. Muscular strength is the ability of a muscle or muscle group to generate maximal force, whereas, muscular endurance describes the muscles ability to exert successive submaximal force for a certain period of time. The purpose of this article is to discuss appropriate methods of muscular fitness assessment for the personal trainer. ![]() The most important reason for monitoring muscular fitness is for program/client evaluation and the progression of the resistance training program (Kramer & Fry, 1995). This would include tests for muscular strength and muscular endurance. Although personal trainers develop various resistance training regimens based upon the clients goals, preferences and time constraints, the initial step (after equipment familiarization) should be to establish a baseline level for overall muscular fitness. The benefits of muscular fitness development include increases in lean body tissue, bone mineral density, connective tissue strength, anaerobic power, low-back health, and self-esteem (Neiman, 1995). The association between muscular fitness and quality of life is impressive. ![]()
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