# How to prescribe working weights with RPE

RPE-based load prescription works when coaches start from a recent honest set, estimate capacity, and write clear working targets clients can hit.

Audience: online strength coaches
Intent: how-to

## Takeaways

- Start from a recent logged set with honest reps and RPE.
- Convert that set into an estimated max before choosing working weights.
- Prescribe target reps and RPE so clients know what good looks like.

## Begin with an honest recent set, not an old tested max

Working weights drift when coaches reuse last block’s claimed max. A better start is a recent set the client actually logged: load, reps, and RPE. That keeps the prescription tied to current capacity.

## Estimate capacity, then choose the working target

Convert the recent set into an estimated 1RM, then pick the next session’s reps and RPE. The goal is a finishable top set or working window, not a theoretical percentage that ignores fatigue and technique.

## Write the prescription so clients can self-correct

Tell clients the target reps, target RPE, and what to do if the first warm-up already feels heavy. Clear stop rules keep auto-regulation useful instead of turning every session into guesswork.

## Keep the Lyfta nudge natural

Once the load target is clear, a product like Lyfta Coach helps when the prescribed work and the client log live in the same place for the next review.

## Where Lyfta Coach fits

Lyfta Coach can help once load targets are clear by keeping prescribed work beside client workout logs.

## Cite this page

- HTML: https://coach.lyfta.app/blog/how-to-prescribe-working-weights-with-rpe
- Markdown: https://coach.lyfta.app/blog/how-to-prescribe-working-weights-with-rpe.md
- Author: [Lyfta Coach Editorial](https://coach.lyfta.app/author)
- Product: [Lyfta Coach](https://coach.lyfta.app)