Effect of incremental and submaximal constant load tests: protocol on perceived exertion (CR10) values

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Science
• Human Performance

Background:

• Understanding exercise intensity perception is crucial for effective training prescription.
• The Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) scale, specifically the CR10 scale, is widely used to quantify exercise intensity.
• Different exercise protocols may influence the perception of exertion at equivalent physiological intensities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate how exercise protocol (incremental vs. constant load) affects the ratings of perceived exertion (CR10) at matched submaximal intensities.
• To compare CR10 values obtained during incremental exercise with those during prolonged constant load exercise.
• To determine the implications for using CR10 during incremental tests to prescribe training loads.

Main Methods:

• 10 healthy, well-trained male students participated.
• Incremental exercise test to determine maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max) and establish CR10 at 70% and 75% VO2 max.
• Two 30-minute constant load exercise tests at 70% and 75% VO2 max to record CR10 values.

Main Results:

• CR10 values during incremental exercise (CR10(70i) and CR10(75i)) were significantly higher than those recorded at any point during the 30-minute constant load tests.
• At 70% VO2 max, incremental CR10 was 5.6 ± 1.9, while constant load CR10 was lower.
• At 75% VO2 max, incremental CR10 was 6.2 ± 1.9, also significantly higher than constant load values.

Conclusions:

• Exercise intensity at 70% and 75% VO2 max is perceived as greater during incremental protocols compared to submaximal constant load tests.
• Coaches and physiotherapists must exercise caution when using CR10 values from incremental tests to set training loads.
• The perceived exertion for a given relative exercise intensity differs between incremental and constant load exercise protocols.