Goal orientation and ratings of perceived exertion in graded exercise testing of adolescents

This study examined the relationship between adolescents' goal orientation in sport and their ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) during a graded exercise test. Subjects (N = 114; 56 boys) were randomly selected adolescents (ages 11 to 15 years) who were part of a 5-year longitudinal study of cardiac growth. RPE was measured during each of three submaximal stages throughout the graded exercise test and again during the maximal stage. A series of regression analyses showed that RPE for female subjects was significantly predicted by Task Orientation, Perceived Ability, and Intensity of Leisure Activity at Stage 1, Task Orientation and Perceived Ability at Stage 2, and by Intensity of Leisure Activity at Stage 3. Examination of the beta weights indicated that lower RPE for the girls was related to higher Task Orientation and lower Perceived Ability and more experience with higher Intensity of Leisure Activity. Results are discussed in light of the literature pertaining to goal orientation and ratings of perceived exertion.