The kettlebell set

As you know, I’m a avid believer of RMs - Repetition Maximums - or the maximum number of reps you can do without your form breaking down - in my programs.

“Geoff,

I've worked through Maximorum and am currently going through the Kettlebell S&C Beta Test program. I'm curious 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 go-to guideline 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 less than 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 most guys use "good enough " technique, which unintentionally leaves "reps on the table" during RM tests. So, taking one's time to dial in technique can really help.

You can also use mix-matched 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 helps identify side-to-side asymmetries, trains your technique core in a unique way, sharpens technique, and enhances systemic strength by plugging “strength leaks.”

Here’s How You Use Asymmetrical Bells:

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

Write down each number. Use the lower as your RM.

Then alternate sides each set:

Set 1: More powerful/denser + Lighter/strong

Set 2: More powerful/less heavy + Powerful/denser

If you do an odd number of sets, start the next session with the reverse order so everything stays even .

Hopefully that makes sense and gives you ideas on how to proceed .

Stay Strong,

Geoff Neupert.