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The aim of this study was to determine a predictive equation of 1 repetition maximum (1RM) from local muscular endurance. Different athletic male populations were assessed: racket/ball games players (n = 31), power lifters (n = 22), swimmers (n = 28), and rowers (n = 29). After the 1RM assessment for the bench press, the maximum number of repetitions (MNR) relative to the 1RM (85%, 75%, 60%, 40%, and 20%) was tested. No significant differences in strength evolution from 20% to 100% of the 1RM was found between power lifters and racket/ball games players and between swimmers and rowers. However, differences in the strength evolution appeared between these 2 mixed groups (p < 0.01), with differences appearing from 75% of 1RM to lesser relative strength (p < 0.05). Nonlinear equations fitted best with the actual data for the capacity to repeat lifts. The evolution of strength from 100% to 20% of 1RM was better described when the groups' specific equations were used as demonstrated by r2, and residuals range between the predicted minus the measured 1RM. The strength endurance competences for high loads (100%-75%) were adequately modelled by the equation based on the total population. The accuracy of the 1RM prediction was better when a reduced number of lifts was performed. For untrained or novice subjects, the use of group-specific equations for the all evolutionary profile of strength allows a good estimate of 1RM and provides adequate numbers of lifts for all levels of strength, thus optimizing the training programs.

Nous nous sommes penchés sur des modèles animaux : les courses de chevaux et de lévriers. Cependant, l’adaptation de ces modèles animaux est soumise à un environnement humain en matière de condition de vie comme en matière d’entraînement, et à un élevage sélectif, qui est reconnu comme accélérant le processus d’adaptation des espèces. Or chez l’homme, cette adaptation se produit uniquement en réaction à l’environnement. Nos objectifs étaient d’estimer les capacités d’adaptation de l’homme, puis d’identifier les influences respectives de l’environnement et des facteurs génétiques dans cette progression de vitesse, sur les 40 dernières années.