A Comparison of Fixed Percentage of One-Repetition Maximum, Rating of Perceived Exertion, and Last Repetition Velocity-Based Training Load Prescription on Muscular Adaptations in Older Adults

Hickmott, LM, Bristol, AR, Davidson, CE, Chaudry, A, Ko, J, Butcher, SJ, and Chilibeck, PD. A Comparison of fixed percentage of One-Repetition Maximum, rating of perceived exertion, and last repetition velocity-based training load prescription on muscular adaptations in older adults. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000–000, 2026—The purpose of this pilot study was to compare fixed (percentage-based training; PBT), subjectively autoregulated (rating of perceived exertion-based training via repetitions in reserve; RBT), and objectively autoregulated (last repetition velocity-based training via individualized last repetition average concentric velocities; LRVBT) resistance training (RT) load prescription on muscular adaptations in older adults (mean age: ∼62 years). A total of 18 males and 18 females were randomized into one of the load prescription groups with matching for baseline strength and administered a 12-week RT intervention. Significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. There was a significant group × time interaction for four-repetition maximum (4RM) bench press ( p = 0.042). Change in 4RM bench press was greater with LRVBT (12.2 ± 4.9 kg) compared to PBT (6.8 ± 4.5 kg), while change for RBT (8.5 ± 4.4 kg) did not differ from the other groups. There was no significant group × time interaction for 4RM back squat ( p = 0.106); however, all groups significantly increased 4RM back squat from baseline ( p < 0.001; PBT: 17.9 ± 10.6 kg; RBT: 22.3 ± 10.4 kg; LRVBT: 28.5 ± 10.9 kg). Change in knee extensor muscle thickness was significantly greater ( p = 0.020) in LRVBT (0.71 ± 0.43 cm) than RBT (0.21 ± 0.42 cm). All groups similarly improved functional performance (i.e., 5-times chair sit-to-stand, timed up-and-go, 6-meter fast gait speed, and stair-climb power test). LRVBT may be superior for increasing bench press strength, but not back squat strength, power, and functional performance in older adults.