One repetition maximum prediction models for children using the OMNI RPE Scale

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Pediatric Sports Science
• Biostatistics

Background:

• Accurate assessment of muscular strength in children is crucial for monitoring growth and training.
• Estimating one repetition maximum (1 RM) is a standard measure, but direct testing can be challenging in pediatric populations.
• Submaximal measures like ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) offer a potentially safer and more practical alternative.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate statistical models for predicting 1 RM muscular strength in children aged 10-14 years.
• To utilize submaximal ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) as predictor variables in these models.
• To establish sex-specific models for biceps curl and knee extension exercises.

Main Methods:

• Participants (35 girls, 35 boys, ages 10-14) performed resistance exercises (biceps curl, knee extension) at 30% and 50% of estimated 1 RM.
• Ratings of Perceived Exertion (RPE) were recorded using the OMNI Resistance Exercise Scale during the final repetition of each set.
• Sex-specific statistical models were created to predict 1 RM based on RPE values from two sets of exercises.

Main Results:

• RPE values ranged from 3.7 to 7.2 across exercises and sexes.
• The developed 1 RM prediction models were statistically significant for both girls (BC: r=0.87, KE: r=0.89) and boys (BC: r=0.89, KE: r=0.87) (P < 0.01).
• The models demonstrated high predictive accuracy, indicating RPE is a practical and effective strength assessment tool.

Conclusions:

• Statistical models using RPE can accurately predict 1 RM muscular strength in 10-14-year-old children.
• These RPE-based models provide a practical and efficient method for assessing muscular strength in pediatric populations.
• The findings support the use of perceived exertion as a valuable tool in strength assessments for children, especially in group settings.