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Calcimator

Band & Chain Calculator

Calculate effective loading at different positions when using bands and chains for accommodating resistance. See how load varies from bottom to lockout.

Inputs

lb
lb
lb
lb

Results

Load at Lockout

325 lb

≈ 15 car tires

Load at Midpoint294 lb
Load at Bottom266 lb
% 1RM at Lockout103.2%
% 1RM at Midpoint93.3%
% 1RM at Bottom84.4%
Average Effective Load295 lb
Load Range (top - bottom)59 lb
Accommodation %22.2%
How to Use This Calculator
  1. Enter the Bar Weight (total loaded barbell weight) in pounds.
  2. Set the Band Tension at Lockout and Chain Weight for your setup.
  3. Review the Estimated 1RM and the load breakdown at Lockout, Midpoint, and Bottom.
  4. Check the % of 1RM at each position to understand the accommodating resistance curve.
  5. Use Average Effective Load and Load Range to compare setups.

How the result changes with Bar Weight (loaded)

Bar Weight (loaded)Load at Lockout
121221 lb
309409 lb
536636 lb
725825 lb

What each input means

Bar Weight (loaded)
Total weight on the barbell including the bar and all plates. This stays constant throughout the lift.
Band Tension at Lockout
Maximum band tension at the top of the lift. Refer to your band manufacturer's specs. Mini bands ~20 lb, light ~40 lb, average ~60 lb, strong ~80+ lb.
Total Chain Weight
Total weight of chains on both sides. Standard chains are 20 lb each (5/8 inch). About half rests on the floor at the bottom.
Estimated 1RM
Your current one-rep max for this lift. Used to calculate percentage of 1RM at each position.

How this is calculated

Worked example, using the default values

  1. Identify Input Parameters
    4 parameters
    Bar Weight (loaded) = 225, Band Tension at Lockout = 60, Total Chain Weight = 40, Estimated 1RM = 315 = 4 input(s) provided
  2. Calculate Load at Lockout
    Load at Lockout
    325 = 325
  3. Calculate Load at Midpoint
    Load at Midpoint
    294 = 294
  4. Calculate Load at Bottom
    Load at Bottom
    266 = 266

Engine last updated . Checked against 1 independently-derived test — how we verify calculators.

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