Overall and differentiated ratings of perceived exertion at the respiratory compensation threshold: effects of gender and mode

Ratings of perceived exertion at the ventilatory anaerobic threshold in people with coronary heart disease: A CARE CR study

BACKGROUND

Exercise prescription guidelines for individuals undergoing cardiovascular rehabilitation (CR) are often based on heart rate training zones and rating of perceived exertion (RPE). United Kingdom guidelines indicate that patients should exercise at an intensity of RPE 11 to 14.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to determine the accuracy of this approach by comparing this RPE range with an objectively measured marker of exercise intensity, the ventilatory anaerobic threshold (VAT), and examine whether baseline directly determined cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) affects the association between VAT and RPE.

METHODS

Participants underwent a maximal cardiopulmonary exercise test before an 8-week community-based CR programme. Peak oxygen uptake (V̇O_2peak) and VAT were recorded, and RPE at the workload at which VAT was identified was recorded. Data were then split into tertiles, based on VO_2peak, to determine whether RPE at the VAT differed in participants with low, moderate or higher CRF.

RESULTS

We included 70 individuals [mean (SD) age 63.1 (10.0) years; body mass index 29.4 (4.0) kg/m²; 86% male]. At baseline, the mean RPE at the VAT (RPE@VAT) was 11.8 (95% confidence interval 11.0-12.6) and significantly differed between low and high CRF groups (P<0.001). The mean RPE@VAT was 10.1 (8.7-11.5), 11.8 (10.5-13.0), and 13.7 (12.5-14.9) for low, moderate and high CRF groups, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

When using RPE to guide exercise intensity in CR populations, one must consider the effect of baseline CRF. Mean RPEs of ∼10, 12 and 14 correspond to the VAT in low, moderate and higher-fit patients, respectively.

Sex Differences in Rotator Cuff Muscles' Response to Various Work-Related Factors

Occupational ApplicationsDespite the frequency and cost of rotator cuff injuries among male and female workers, very little is known about the strength, endurance, and perceived exertion and electromyographic response of rotator cuff muscles to different exertion levels. In this study, sex differences were studied using muscle-specific maximal and submaximal exertions of the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, and teres minor muscles. Females showed lower strength and endurance, but higher muscle activity and perceived exertion compared to males. The baseline data presented in this paper can assist ergonomic practitioners in determining the worker capacity to ensure that physically-demanding shoulder exertions can be performed without incurring injurious stress. Such data is also essential to establish population norms for the better design of workplace tasks.

Examination of Coach and Player Perceptions of Recovery and Exertion

Kraft, JA, Laurent, ML, Green, JM, Helm, J, Roberts, C, and Holt, S. Examination of coach and player perceptions of recovery and exertion. J Strength Cond Res 34(5): 1383-1391, 2020-Monitoring training and recovery are essential for exercise programming. Athletes can validly assess training load (TL) via the session rating of perceived exertion (SRPE) technique. However, it is unclear if coaches can successfully use this model. This study compared coach and athlete perceptions of effort and recovery, and it evaluated the efficacy of perceptually based TL monitoring. Participants included 56 athletes (Women's volleyball, soccer, and basketball and Men's basketball) and their coaches (n = 4). Perceived recovery was estimated via the Perceived Recovery Status scale. Scores of TL were calculated using the Edward's heart rate (HR) method and by multiplying SRPE by duration. Coaches provided an intended SRPE (SRPE-CI) before practice. Also, SRPE was independently estimated by coaches (SRPE-CO) and athletes (SRPE-A) ∼15-20 minutes after practice. Paired t-tests and Pearson's correlations were applied to make comparisons (α ≤ 0.05). Values of SRPE-CI, SRPE-CO, SRPE-A TLs were strongly correlated with Edwards' HR-based TLs (R = 0.74, 0.73, and 0.76, respectively). However, SRPE-CI (5.5 ± 1.9) and SRPE-CO (5.0 ± 1.9) was higher than SRPE-A (4.5 ± 1.9). Coaches estimated recovery higher than athletes (7.1 ± 1.3 vs. 5.8 ± 1.6). Estimates of TL strongly correlated with Edwards' TL regardless of information source (coach or athlete) or time point (SRPE-CI TL or SRPE-CO TL). Results suggest that coaches' perceptions validly indicated TL. Coaches' perceptions provide parallel information (correlated strongly with Edwards TL) but not identical information (demonstrated by differences in SRPE) as athlete perceptions. Differences in perceived recovery indicate that coaches overestimate recovery when compared with athletes' perceptions.

Towards a three-dimensional framework of centrally regulated and goal-directed exercise behaviour: a narrative review

The Central Governor Model (CGM) ignited a paradigm shift from concepts of catastrophic failure towards central regulation of exercise performance. However, the CGM has focused on the central integration of afferent feedback in homeostatic control. Accordingly, it neglected the important role of volitional self-regulatory control and the integration of affective components inherently attached to all physiological cues. Another limitation is the large reliance on the Gestalt phenomenon of perceived exertion. Thus, progress towards a comprehensive multidimensional model of perceived fatigability and exercise regulation is needed. Drawing on Gate Control Theory of pain, we propose a three-dimensional framework of centrally regulated and goal-directed exercise behaviour, which differentiates between sensory, affective and cognitive processes shaping the perceptual milieu during exercise. We propose that: (A) perceived mental strain and perceived physical strain are primary determinants of pacing behaviour reflecting sensory-discriminatory processes necessary to align planned behaviour with current physiological state, (B) core affect plays a primary and mediatory role in exercise and performance regulation, and its underlying two dimensions hedonicity and arousal reflect affective-motivational processes triggering approach and avoidance behaviour, and (C) the mindset-shift associated with an action crisis plays a primary role in volitional self-regulatory control reflecting cognitive-evaluative processes between further goal-pursuit and goal-disengagement. The proposed framework has the potential to enrich theory development in centrally regulated and goal-directed exercise behaviour by emphasising the multidimensional dynamic processes underpinning perceived fatigability and provides a practical outline for investigating the complex interplay between the psychophysiological determinants of pacing and performance during prolonged endurance exercise.

Heart Rate and Ratings of Perceived Exertion during Treadmill and Elliptical Exercise Training

Elliptical exercise has recently increased in popularity. However, little is known regarding heart rate and perceptual responses during this exercise mode even though such information is important with respect to prescribing and regulating exercise intensity. In the current study, heart rate and perceived exertion were compared between treadmill and elliptical exercise. During treadmill exercise (TMEST) participants estimated RPE-Overall as well as RPE-Legs and RPE-Chest. Two elliptical sessions followed: (1) RPE estimation during elliptical exercise (ELEST): HR (b/min.) from TMEST was achieved during elliptical exercise, with participants estimating RPE-Overall, RPE-Legs, and RPE-Chest. (2) RPE production during elliptical exercise (ELPROD): RPE-Overall from TMEST was produced during elliptical exercise. There were no significant differences between modes for RPE-Overall (TMEST: 11.2 ± 2.2 vs ELEST: 11.9 ± 3.2) or RPE-Chest (TMEST: 11.0 ± 2.4 vs ELEST: 11.7 ± 3.2). Mean RPE-Legs was significantly different (TMEST: 11.2 ± 2.4 vs ELEST: 12.5 ± 3.1). Heart rate was not significantly different between TMEST (163 ± 16.6) and ELPROD (159 ± 20.0). Analysis indicated elliptical exercise is perceived as more intense with respect to leg (RPE-Legs) exertion. Further, RPE-Overall appears effective for regulating heart rate during elliptical exercise.

Physiological responses and exercise preference between the Trikke and the bicycle ergometer

Background/Objective

The positive relationship between health benefits or the wellbeing of individuals and their engagement in physical activity is well-documented. Nevertheless, many Americans show no interest or perceive that “exercise is boring” as one of the reasons for not exercising. For these reasons, it is important to promote fun and enjoyment aspects of the activity to motivate people to participate in physical activity. The purpose of this study was to examine the physiological responses and the perception of enjoyment between the Trikke and the bicycle ergometer.

Methods

Thirty college students (15 males and 15 females) aged 18–45 years old voluntarily participated in the study and showed up on three occasions. The first session involved a 5-minute instructional video and practice on the Trikke. Participants were then randomized into sessions which involved either riding the Trikke or the bicycle ergometer. Participants of each group performed a 20-minute ride at 75–80% of maximal predicted heart rate.

Results

Results of mixed design analysis of variance (ANOVAs) indicated that VO₂, energy expenditure, and rate of perceived exertion (RPE) of the participants were significantly (p < 0.001) higher when using the bicycle ergometer than the Trikke, and female participants were able to manipulate the Trikke more efficiently than their male counterparts.

Conclusion

Participants were more efficient in using the Trikke than the bicycle ergometer. The Trikke may be an enjoyable alternative for those individuals, particularly women, who have lost interest in traditional forms of exercise.

Rating of perceived exertion as a tool for prescribing and self regulating interval training: a pilot study

The aim of the present study was to analyse the usefulness of the 6-20 rating of perceived exertion (RPE) scale for prescribing and self-regulating high-intensity interval training (HIT) in young individuals. Eight healthy young subjects (age = 27.5±6.7 years) performed maximal graded exercise testing to determine their maximal and reserve heart rate (HR). Subjects then performed two HIT sessions (20 min on a treadmill) prescribed and regulated by their HR (HR: 1 min at 50% alternated with 1 min at 85% of reserve HR) or RPE (RPE: 1 minute at the 9-11 level [very light-fairly light] alternated with 1 minute at the 15-17 level [hard-very hard]) in random order. HR response and walking/running speed during the 20 min of exercise were compared between sessions. No significant difference between sessions was observed in HR during low- (HR: 135±15 bpm; RPE: 138±20 bpm) and high-intensity intervals (HR: 168±15 bpm; RPE: 170±18 bpm). Walking/running speed during low- (HR: 5.7±1.2 km · h⁻¹; RPE: 5.7±1.3 km · h⁻¹) and high-intensity intervals (HR: 7.8±1.9 km · h⁻¹; RPE: 8.2±1.7 km · h⁻¹) was also not different between sessions. No significant differences were observed in HR response and walking/running speed between HIT sessions prescribed and regulated by HR or RPE. This finding suggests that the 6-20 RPE scale may be a useful tool for prescribing and self-regulating HIT in young subjects.

Sex-specific responses to self-paced, high-intensity interval training with variable recovery periods

This study examined sex-specific responses during self-paced, high-intensity interval training (HIIT). Sixteen (8 men and 8 women) individuals completed a peak oxygen uptake test and 3 treadmill HIIT sessions on separate days. The HIIT sessions consisted of six 4-minute intervals performed at the highest self-selected intensity individuals felt they could maintain. Recovery between intervals was counterbalanced and consisted of 1-, 2-, or 4-minute recovery during each trial. Relative measures of intensity, including percentage of velocity at VO2peak (vVO2peak), %VO2peak, %HRmax, and blood lactate concentration ([La]), were observed during the trials. Perceived readiness was recorded immediately before and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were recorded at the end of each interval with session RPE recorded after each trial. Results revealed a significant effect of sex on %vVO2peak (p < 0.01) and %HRmax (p < 0.01). Data show that across trials, men self-select higher %vVO2peak (84.5 vs. 80.7%), whereas women produce higher %HRmax (96.9 vs. 92.1%) and %VO2peak (89.6 vs. 86.1%) with no difference in [La] or perceptual responses. These findings support the notion that women may demonstrate improved recovery during high-intensity exercise, as they will self-select intensities resulting in greater cardiovascular strain. Moreover, results confirm previous findings suggesting that a 2:1 work-to-rest ratio is optimal during HIIT for both men and women.

Prediction of maximal or peak oxygen uptake from ratings of perceived exertion

Maximal or peak oxygen uptake (V˙O2 max and V˙O2 peak , respectively) are commonly measured during graded exercise tests (GXTs) to assess cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), to prescribe exercise intensity and/or to evaluate the effects of training. However, direct measurement of CRF requires a GXT to volitional exhaustion, which may not always be well accepted by athletes or which should be avoided in some clinical populations. Consequently, numerous studies have proposed various sub-maximal exercise tests to predict V˙O2 max or V˙O2 peak . Because of the strong link between ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) and oxygen uptake (V˙O2), it has been proposed that the individual relationship between RPE and V˙O2 (RPE:V˙O2) can be used to predict V˙O2 max (or V˙O2 peak) from data measured during submaximal exercise tests. To predict V˙O2 max or V˙O2 peak from these linear regressions, two procedures may be identified: an estimation procedure or a production procedure. The estimation procedure is a passive process in which the individual is typically asked to rate how hard an exercise bout feels according to the RPE scale during each stage of a submaximal GXT. The production procedure is an active process in which the individual is asked to self-regulate and maintain an exercise intensity corresponding to a prescribed RPE. This procedure is referred to as a perceptually regulated exercise test (PRET). Recently, prediction of V˙O2max or V˙O2 peak from RPE:V˙O2 measured during both GXT and PRET has received growing interest. A number of studies have tested the validity, reliability and sensitivity of predicted V˙O2 max or V˙O2 peak from RPE:V˙O2 extrapolated to the theoretical V˙O2 max at RPE20 (or RPE19). This review summarizes studies that have used this predictive method during submaximal estimation or production procedures in various populations (i.e., sedentary individuals, athletes and pathological populations). The accuracy of the methods is discussed according to the RPE:V˙O2 range used to plot the linear regression (e.g., RPE9–13 versus RPE9–15 versus RPE9–17 during PRET), as well as the perceptual endpoint used for the extrapolation (i.e., RPE19 and RPE20). The V˙O2 max or V˙O2 peak predictions from RPE:V˙O2 are also compared with heart rate-related predictive methods. This review suggests that V˙O2 max (or V˙O2 peak ) may be predicted from RPE:V˙O2 extrapolated to the theoretical V˙O2 max (or V˙O2 peak) at RPE20 (or RPE19). However, it is generally preferable to (1) extrapolate RPE:V ˙ O 2 to RPE19 (rather than RPE20); (2) use wider RPE ranges (e.g. RPE ≤ 17 or RPE9–17) in order to increase the accuracy of the predictions; and (3) use RPE ≤ 15 or RPE9–15 in order to reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications in clinical populations.

Physiological responses according to rules changes during 3 vs. 3 small-sided games in youth soccer players: stop-ball vs. small-goals rules

Small-sided games (SSGs) are effective for soccer-specific aerobic endurance training. To date, no study has investigated the effect of stop-ball (SB-SSG) rule on the physiological responses to SSG. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to examine the effects of SB-SSG vs. small-goals (SG-SSG) rules on physiological responses during a 3 vs. 3 SSG in young soccer players. Twelve male amateur young soccer players (age, 14.0 ± 0.7 years; body mass, 51.8 ± 8.0 kg; height, 164 ± 7 cm) randomly performed either SB-SSG or SG-SSG for 4 × 4 min separated by 2 min of recovery on a 20 × 15 m pitch. During the SB-SSG, participants were instructed to stop the ball with the soles of their boots in a 15 × 1 m surface behind the pitch bottom line; whereas during the SG-SSG, the participants were instructed to score to a mini-goal (i.e., 1 × 0.5 m). During each test session, the mean heart rate (HR), the post-SSG rating of perceived exertion (RPE) scores and blood lactate concentrations ([La(-)]) were recorded. Results showed that SB-SSG induced significantly higher mean HR (178 ± 3 vs. 174 ± 3 bpm; P < 0.05) and [La(-)] (4.66 ± 0.98 vs. 4.16 ± 1.02 mol · L(-1); P < 0.05) than SG-SSG. However, there was no significant difference between SB-SSG and SG-SSG for the RPE scores. In conclusion, the present study demonstrates the effectiveness of SB-SSG in SSG training. Indeed, SB-SSG can influence the effort intensity in SSG (i.e., resulted in a higher intensity than SG-SSG). Therefore, coaches have the possibility to choose between SB-SSG and SG-SSG rules during training sessions according to their physical and technical objectives.

A perceptually regulated, graded exercise test predicts peak oxygen uptake during treadmill exercise in active and sedentary participants

The validity of predicting peak oxygen uptake ([Formula: see text]) in sedentary participants from a perceptually regulated exercise test (PRET) is limited to two cycle ergometry studies. We assessed the validity of a treadmill-based PRET. Active (n = 49; 40.7 ± 13.8 years) and sedentary (n = 26; 33.4 ± 13.2 y) participants completed two PRETS (PRET 1 and PRET2), requiring a change in speed or incline corresponding to ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) 9, 11, 13 and 15. Extrapolation of RPE: [Formula: see text] data to RPE 19 and 20 from the RPE 9-13 and 9-15 ranges were used to estimate [Formula: see text], and compared to [Formula: see text] from a graded exercise test (GXT). The [Formula: see text] :heart rate (HR) data (≥RPE 15) from the GXT were also extrapolated to age-predicted maximal HR (HRmax(pred)) to provide further estimation of [Formula: see text]. ANOVA revealed no significant differences between [Formula: see text] predictions from the RPE 9-15 range for PRET 1 and PRET 2 when extrapolated to RPE 19 in both active (54.3 ± 7.4; 52.9 ± 8.1 ml kg(-1) min(-1)) and sedentary participants (34.1 ± 10.2; 34.2 ± 9.6 ml kg(-1) min(-1)) and no difference between the HRmax(pred) method and measured [Formula: see text] from the GXT for active (53.3 ± 10.0; 53.9 ± 7.5 ml kg(-1) min(-1), respectively) and sedentary participants (33.6 ± 8.4, 34.4 ± 7.0 ml kg(-1) min(-1), respectively). A single treadmill-based PRET using RPE 9-15 range extrapolated to RPE 19 is a valid means of predicting [Formula: see text] in young and middle to older-aged individuals of varying activity and fitness levels.

Effect of deception and expected exercise duration on psychological and physiological variables during treadmill running and cycling

Effects of deception and expected duration on the rating of perceived exertion (RPE), affect, and heart rate (HR) were examined during treadmill (n=12) and cycling (n=8) exercise. Participants completed three conditions: (1) 20 MIN-exercise for 20 min, stop after 20 min; (2) 10 MIN-exercise for 10 min, in 10th min be told to exercise for 10 min more; and (3) UNKNOWN-no information about duration. Intensities were set at 70% and 65% of peak oxygen uptake for treadmill and cycling, respectively. RPE increased (treadmill) and affect decreased (treadmill and cycling) in the absence of changes in HR and oxygen uptake in the 10 MIN conditions. These changes suggest a disruption to a feed-forward/feedback system. The lower HR in the UNKNOWN conditions suggests a subconscious attempt to conserve energy when the duration of the exercise task is unknown.

Comparação das respostas fisiológicas e perceptuais obtidas durante caminhada na esteira em ritmo autosselecionado entre os sexos

O objetivo do presente estudo foi comparar as respostas fisiológicas e perceptuais entre os sexos durante a caminhada na esteira em ritmo autosselecionado. Participaram 17 homens e 17 mulheres, fisicamente ativos, com média de idade de 23,32 ± 3,06 anos, submetidos a duas sessões experimentais: (I) avaliação antropométrica e teste incremental máximo, e (II) um teste de 20 minutos de caminhada na esteira em ritmo autosselecionado. Para a análise estatística, empregou-se teste t de Student para medidas independentes no intuito de verificar as possíveis diferenças entre os sexos, adotando p < 0,05. A velocidade de caminhada autosselecionada pela amostra masculina foi superior à verificada na feminina (1,65 ± 0,18 e 1,50 ± 0,12m·seg-1, respectivamente) o que consequentemente resultou em maior <img src="/img/revistas/rbme/v16n4/v7_dot.gif" align="absmiddle">O2 absoluto nos homens comparado às mulheres (21,2 ± 5,5 e 18,3 ± 2,7, respectivamente). No entanto, ambos os sexos buscaram caminhar em mesma intensidade relativa % <img src="/img/revistas/rbme/v16n4/v7_dot.gif" align="absmiddle">O2máx, (37,5 ± 10,7 homens e 40,3 ± 7,2 mulheres). Em relação à percepção subjetiva de esforço (PSE), podemos verificar que ambos os sexos não demonstraram diferenças significativas (10,2 ± 1,0 homens e 9,8 ± 1,2 mulheres). Os achados do presente estudo demonstram que, independente do sexo, jovens adultos fisicamente ativos autosselecionaram similar intensidade relativa que refletiu em similar PSE. Além disso, a caminhada em intensidade autosselecionada demonstra-se como estímulo insuficiente para proporcionar melhora no condicionamento cardiorrespiratório nesta população.

A comparison of physiologic and physical discomfort responses between exercise modalities

To determine differences in physiologic responses and perceived discomfort during maximal and submaximal exercise with 2 common exercise modalities, the elliptical cross-trainer (ECT) and the arc trainer (ARC) were used, which undergoes an excursion of motion using an arc pathway. Eighteen subjects (10 male and 8 female; age = 24.7 +/- 2.6 yr, height = 172.2 +/- 10.3 cm, mass = 69.8 +/- 14.9 kg, %fat = 22.5 +/- 8.1%; mean +/- SD) performed maximal exercise protocols on a treadmill (TML), the ECT, and ARC. Subjects also performed 3 10-minute submaximal exercise bouts on the ECT and ARC at 55%, 65%, and 75% of TML maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) in which heart rate (HR), VO2, ventilation, respiratory exchange ratio, and hip, knee, and low-back discomfort were monitored. All testing on the ECT and ARC were performed in a counterbalanced order. The VO2max was greater during TML exercise compared with ECT (p = 0.007) but similar to the ARC. Both ECT and ARC elicited lower maximal HR values compared with maximal TML exercise (p = 0.0001). No difference was observed between ECT and ARC for VO2 during the submaximal exercise bouts (p > 0.05). However, HR was greater during submaximal ECT exercise (p < 0.0001). Perception of discomfort was not different between ECT and ARC for knees (p > 0.05) and lower back (p > 0.05) but different for the hips (p = 0.02). Similar VO2max values were observed with ARC and TML modalities. Greater perceptions of discomfort were observed with ECT compared with ARC at similar submaximal exercise intensities, suggesting individuals with, or at risk for, lower-extremity joint pathology may benefit from exercise with modalities other than the ECT.

The impact of dietary restraint and moderate-intensity exercise on post-exercise energy intake in sedentary males

Exercise is often used for successful weight management, particularly by males. However, exercise may have the potential to promote counter-regulatory eating, because of certain cognitive and psychological factors. The purpose of this study was to investigate the unknown role of dietary restraint, BMI, and dieting status on acute and 12-hour post-exercise energy intake (PE-EI) in sedentary males following moderate-intensity exercise. The study consisted of two experimental conditions, exercise and rest, in a counterbalanced-crossover design on two days. Exercise consisted of walking on a treadmill for 60 min. Acute and 12-hour PE-EI were compared on exercise and rest days. Eighty males, mean age 30+/-8 years, participated in the study and were categorized by dietary restraint level, BMI, and dieting status. The main effects of condition and group, and the interaction were not significant for acute or 12-hour PE-EI, suggesting that a single bout of moderate-intensity exercise did not influence PE-EI in sedentary males in reference to dietary restraint, BMI, and dieting status. Therefore, moderate-intensity exercise as a prescription for weight loss does not appear to promote counter-regulatory eating in sedentary males.

Session RPE following interval and constant-resistance cycling in hot and cool environments

PURPOSE

This study examined effects of heat gain, circulatory adjustment to temperature regulation (HR), and [La] consequent to interval (INT) and constant-load (CON) cycling on session RPE (S-RPE).

METHODS

Male volunteers (N = 10) completed a cycle ergometer VO2peak test and then, in a randomized, counterbalanced order, four cycling bouts, including constant load (approximately 45% VO2peak) (CON) and interval (8 x 1 min at about 90% VO2peak, 1 min between intervals) (INT), in hot (approximately 32.5 WBGT) (HOT) and cool (approximately 21.0 WBGT) (COOL) environments. Trials included a standardized warm-up and cool-down (10 min each: 0 W, 60 rpm). Total external work was equated among all trials, with blood lactate ([La]), heart rate (HR), rectal temperature (Tre), and acute RPE recorded at 10, 13, 17, 21, 25, and 36 min. S-RPE was recorded 20 min after each session.

RESULTS

HOT (CON and INT) resulted in significantly (P < 0.05) greater heat gain (Tre), HR, and RPE-O, whereas INT had significantly elevated [La] versus CON (HOT and COOL). HOT yielded significantly higher S-RPE versus COOL for CON (HOT = 5.6 +/- 2.1, COOL = 4.3 +/- 1.3) and INT (HOT = 7.0 +/- 1.9, COOL = 5.1 +/- 2.0). S-RPE was significantly higher for INT/HOT than CON/HOT.

CONCLUSIONS

Heat gain and cardiac strain (Tre, HR) and [La]) were manipulated with environment and exercise type while holding total work constant. The added strain of HOT was reflected in elevated S-RPE for both CON and INT. S-RPE linkage with [La] was limited to HOT trials, indicating only a loose association. These data indicate that under the conditions of this study, S-RPE is similar to acute RPE in that no single mediator seems universally dominant.

Overall and peripheral ratings of perceived exertion during a graded exercise test to volitional exhaustion in individuals of high and low fitness

This study assessed the relationship between differentiated ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) and heart rate with oxygen uptake (VO2) during two graded exercise tests (GXT) to exhaustion on a cycle ergometer in 49 men and women (19-50 years) of high and low fitness. The study also assessed whether sub-maximal RPE values elicited during the GXTs could provide appropriate estimates of maximal aerobic power (VO2max) Peripheral RPE (RPEP) was higher than overall RPE (RPEO) at exhaustion in both groups (P<0.001), but the reliability of the terminal RPEO was higher (0.75 and 0.40, respectively). Fitness did not moderate the relationship of RPEO and RPEP with VO2 during the GXTs (P>0.05). However, the correlation for RPEP and VO2 was higher for women compared to men (0.98 and 0.96, respectively, P<0.05), although this is of little practical significance. In both groups, RPEO was almost as highly correlated with VO2 as heart rate during GXTs terminated at exhaustion (approximately 0.955-0.980). There were no differences between predicted and measured VO2max when VO2 values were extrapolated from sub-maximal RPEO (13, 15 and 17) intensities (42.1+/-12.5, 43.4+/-11.5, 44.2+/-11.3 and 43.3+/-10.0 ml kg(-1) min(-1), respectively). However, VO2max predicted from sub-maximal RPEP intensities was significantly lower (P<0.05). In conclusion, terminal RPEO was a more reliable measure of the RPE, and provided more accurate estimates of VO2max in healthy participants of high and low fitness when elicited from sub-maximal exercise intensities.

Prediction of maximal oxygen uptake from the ratings of perceived exertion and heart rate during a perceptually-regulated sub-maximal exercise test in active and sedentary participants

This study assessed whether the accuracy of predicting maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) from sub-maximal heart rate (HR) and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) values was moderated by gender and habitual activity. In total, 27 men and 18 women completed two GXTs to determine VO2max and three perceptually-regulated GXTs, incremented by RPE 9, 11, 13, 15 and 17. The RPE and HR were individually regressed against VO2max (approximately 0.96) to enable predictions of VO2max. The VO2max was predicted from three RPE ranges (9-17, 9-15, 9-13). The RPE ranges were extrapolated to RPE(19), RPE(20) and age-predicted maximal HR (HRmax(pred)). ANOVA revealed no differences between measured and predicted VO2max (P > 0.05) when the RPE range 9-17 was extrapolated to RPE(19) and HRmax(pred). Extrapolation of RPE 9-17 to RPE(20) overestimated VO2max (P < 0.05), but no differences were observed when predicted from the RPE ranges 9-15 and 9-13. The prediction of VO2max was not moderated by gender or activity status. Hierarchical regression analysis revealed that HR explained additional variance in VO2max when added to the RPE (2%). Hierarchical multiple regression analysis also indicated that VO2max was significantly correlated with power output at sub-maximal RPE values of 13 and 15 (P < 0.01) in men and women. The addition of HRmax(pred) improved the accuracy of the prediction equation for men (P = 0.05) but not for women. The study confirmed the validity of estimating VO2max from perceptually-regulated, sub-maximal GXT and indicated the potential utility of regression analysis to gauge appropriate sub-maximal exercise intensities.

The validity of predicting maximal oxygen uptake from perceptually regulated graded exercise tests of different durations

The purpose of this study was to assess the validity of predicting maximal oxygen uptake [V(.-)((O)(2)(max))] from sub-maximal V(.-)((O)(2)) values elicited during perceptually regulated exercise tests of 2- and 4-min duration. Nineteen physically active men and women (age range 19-23 years) volunteered to participate in two graded exercise tests to volitional exhaustion to measure V(.-)((O)(2)(max)) [V(.-)((O)(2)(max))(GXT)], at the beginning and end of a 2-week period, and four incremental, perceptually regulated tests to predict [V(.-)((O)(2)(max))] in the intervening period. Effort production tests comprised 2 x 2-min and 2 x 4-min bouts on a cycle ergometer, perceptually regulated at intensities of 9, 11, 13, 15 and 17 on the Borg 6-20 rating of perceived (RPE) scale, in that order. Individual linear relationships between RPE and V(.-)((O)(2) for RPE ranges of 9-17, 11-17 and 9-15 were extrapolated to RPE 20 to predict [V(.-)((O)(2)(max))]. The prediction of [V(.-)((O)(2)(max))] was not moderated by gender. Although, [V(.-)((O)(2)(max))] estimated from RPE 9-17 of trial 1 of the 2-min protocol was significantly lower (P < 0.05) than [V(.-)((O)(2)(max))(GXT)], and V(.-)((O)(2)(max)) predicted from the 4-min trials, the V(.-)((O)(2)(max)) predicted from trial 2 of the 2-min protocol was a more accurate prediction of [V(.-)((O)(2)(max))(GXT)], across all trials. The intraclass correlation coefficient (R) was also higher between [V(.-)((O)(2)(max))(GXT)], and [V(.-)((O)(2)(max))] predicted from trial 2 of the 2-min protocol compared to both trials in the 4-min protocol (R = 0.95, 0.88 and 0.79, respectively). Similar results were observed for RPE ranges 9-15 and 11-17. Results suggest that a sub-maximal, perceptually guided, graded exercise protocol, particularly of a 2-min duration, provides acceptable estimates of maximal aerobic power, which are not moderated by gender.

Differential perceived exertion measured using a new visual analogue scale during pedaling and running

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the differential perceived exertion measured using a new set of Visual Analogue Scales (VAS) during pedaling and running. The subjects were eleven healthy males. They performed an incremental maximal test and then three 4-min stages of exercise, for both pedaling and running. During the tests, VO2, V(CO2), V(E), f, and HR were monitored continuously. Bla and perceptual variables including VAS consisting of four scales (VAS 1-VAS 4) and Borg's RPE were measured at the end of each stage. Although the VO2 (%VO2max)) and HR for both pedaling and running were not significantly different, Bla in pedaling was significantly higher than that in running. A significant interaction (mode, stage) was also obtained. The VAS 1 of pedaling was significantly higher than that of running. A significant interaction in VAS 1 (mode, stage) was obtained. The VAS 2 of pedaling was significantly higher than that of running. The subjects indicated that local pain became stronger than central pain in pedaling, but they were almost equal in running. In both pedaling and running, leg pain became stronger than arm pain (VAS 3). VAS 4 showed that during running, breathing difficulty and heart pain were almost equal in perceived intensity. However, during pedaling, breathing difficulty became greater than heart pain. Thus, a new four-part visual analogue scale was found to be useful for monitoring exercise intensity. In addition, the new VAS gave us more information in relation to the differential perceived exertion reflected in the different physiological responses obtained by different exercise modes.

RPE-lactate dissociation during extended cycling

This study examined the association of blood lactate concentration [La] and heart rate (HR) with ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) during 60 min of steady workload cycling. Physically active college-aged subjects (n = 14) completed an exhaustive cycling test to determine VO(2) (peak) and lactate threshold (2.5 mmol l(-1)). Subjects then cycled for 60 min at the power output associated with 2.5 mmol l(-1) [LA]. HR, [LA], RPE-overall, RPE-legs and RPE-chest were recorded at 5, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 min. The 60-min trials were below maximal lactate steady state, with peak lactate concentration occurring at 20 min after which [LA] declined. The 20-min point was therefore considered pivotal, and data at other points were compared to this time point. Repeated measures ANOVA with simple contrasts (alpha = 0.05) showed (a) [LA] at 40, 50 and 60 min was significantly lower than at 20 min, (b) RPE-O and RPE-L were significantly greater at 30, 40, 50 and 60 min than at 20 min, (c) RPE-C was significantly greater at 40, 50 and 60 min than at 20 min, and (d) HR was significantly greater at 30, 40, 50 and 60 min than at 20 min. Significant (P < 0.05) positive correlations were found between HR and RPE-O (r = 0.43), RPE-L (r = 0.48) and RPE-C (r = 0.41) while correlations for [LA]-HR (r = 0.13) and [LA]-RPE (RPE-O: r = -0.11, RPE-L: r = 0.01, RPE-C: r = -0.06) were weak and non-significant. There is a dissociation of RPE and [LA] owing to RPE drift and lactate kinetics in longer duration sub-maximal exercise. Apparently, [LA] is not a strong RPE mediator during extended cycling.