10/30/2026
Should high school athletes “max out” during the season? 🏋️♂️🚫
According to the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), true 1RM testing is generally contraindicated and discouraged once competition begins.
Here is why:
1️⃣ The Goal Shifts: In-season training is strictly for maintenance, power transfer, and injury mitigation—not personal records.
2️⃣ CNS Fatigue: High-load maximal tests tax the central nervous system right when athletes need freshness for games and practices.
3️⃣ Recovery Economy: High school athletes already manage high sports volumes and school stress. Don’t drain their recovery reserves.
What to do instead:
✅ Train between 70%–85% of pre-season 1RM
✅ Keep volume low (2–3 sets of 3–6 crisp reps)
✅ Estimate working loads with submaximal 3RM–5RM tests
✅ Save 1RM testing for the off-season!
Prepared by Sweat Is Free Transformation Center
🌐 www.sweatisfree.com
References:
Haff, G. G., & Triplett, N. T. (Eds.). (2016). Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning (4th ed.). Human Kinetics / National Strength and Conditioning Association. (Ch. 21: Periodization).
Faigenbaum, A. D., Kraemer, W. J., Blimkie, C. J., et al. (2009). Youth resistance training: Updated position statement paper from the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 23(5 Suppl), S60–S79.
National Strength and Conditioning Association. (2017). NSCA Strength and Conditioning Professional Standards and Guidelines. NSCA.
Dawes, J. (Ed.). (2023). NSCA’s Guide to High School Strength and Conditioning. Human Kinetics.
