The influence of exercise test protocol on perceived exertion at submaximal exercise intensities in children

This study examined ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) using Borg's 6-20 scale at 50 W, 80 W, and ventilatory threshold (VT) in 10-year-old children (n = 15) during two different graded exercise tests. Power output was increased by 10 W.min(-1) in one protocol and by 30 W.3 min(-1) in the other. The cardiorespiratory responses at VT and peak exercise were similar between protocols. At 50 W and 80 W the cardiorespiratory responses were generally lower (P < 0.05) in the 10W trial. However, RPE was 11.5 +/- 2.9 and 12.1 +/- 3.2 at 50 W and 15.1 +/- 2.7 and 15.3 +/- 2.8 at 80 W in the 10-W and 30-W trials, respectively (P > 0.05). The RPE at VT was 13.9 +/- 2.4 in the 10-W trial and 12.4 +/- 2.4 in the 30-W trial (P < 0.05). In that variations in submaximal RPE did not coincide with variations in central mediators of exertion, locals cues of exertion may have provided the dominate sensory signal.