Presence of Observers Increases One Repetition Maximum in College-age Males and Females

To determine if the presence of observers affects muscular strength performance in college-age males and females. Twenty-five women and 24 men participated in the study. Two counter-balanced trials were performed in which participants completed 1-RM tests in bench press and leg press. During one trial, two members of the opposite gender observed the 1-RM tests. During the other trial there were no observers, other than the tester. 1-RM for females increased 3.4±0.8 lbs on bench press (p