The kettlebell collection

As you know, I’m read more 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 worked through Maximorum and am currently going 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 below 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 almost all guys use " passable" technique, which unintentionally leaves "reps on the table" during RM tests. So, focusing more to dial in technique can really help.

You can also use uneven 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 reveals side-to-side asymmetries, trains your core in a fresh way, refines technique, and boosts systemic strength by plugging “strength leaks.”

Here’s How You Use Asymmetrical Bells:

RM test with the heftier bell in your dominant hand. Rest between 10 and 20 minutes, then repeat with the heavier bell in your strong hand. (No weak sides—just dominant and more dominant .)

Write down both numbers . Use the smaller as your RM.

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 alternate sequence so everything stays balanced .

Hopefully that clears things up and gives you suggestions on how to continue.

Stay Strong,

Geoff Neupert.