# Older Lifters Read Their Own Effort Just as Well as Younger Ones

*Trainability of repetitions-in-reserve estimation in younger and older adults: a parallel-group repeated-measures study.*

- **Evidence Level**: Preliminary
- **Publication Types**: Journal Article
- **Journal**: BMC sports science, medicine & rehabilitation
- **Sample Size**: 26 adults (13 aged ~33, 13 aged ~67)
- **Authors**: Wiedenmann T, Kunellis D, Rappelt L, Held S, Wicker P, Donath L
- **Published**: 2026-08-20
- **Topics**: Exercise, Strength Training, Healthy Aging
- **DOI**: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13102-026-01997-y
- **Original Source**: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42632893/

## Summary

Guessing how many reps you have left in the tank is a skill you can practice. In a small gym study, adults in their 60s were just as good at it as adults in their 30s, and both groups got noticeably better over six sessions. Their guessing error dropped by up to 2.3 reps on bench press and leg press. That matters because knowing your true effort level helps you train hard without going to failure every set.

## Practical Takeaway

This study suggests a few practice sessions can sharpen how well you judge your own effort.

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_Canonical: https://longevity-switzerland.com/en/research/older-lifters-read-their-own-effort-just-as-well-as-younger-ones · Part of Longevity Cities · Updated 2026-08-20_