Self-monitored exercise at three different RPE intensities in treadmill vs field running

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Science
• Human Performance

Background:

• The Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) is a subjective measure used to gauge exercise intensity.
• Comparing exercise outcomes between laboratory (treadmill) and field (outdoor track) settings is crucial for ecological validity.
• Understanding the long-term reliability of RPE-based protocols is essential for consistent training prescription.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the physiological and performance outcomes of running exercise using an RPE protocol on a treadmill versus an outdoor track.
• To evaluate the consistency and reliability of an RPE production protocol over a 3-5 week period.

Main Methods:

• Eleven healthy adult males (33-65 years) participated in two test sessions (treadmill and track) in a rotated order.
• Subjects followed a standardized RPE protocol: 3 min at RPE 11, 11 min at RPE 13, and 5 min at RPE 15.
• Measured variables included heart rate (HR), blood lactate, and velocity; test-retest reliability was assessed.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in HR, blood lactate, and velocity were observed across the three RPE levels.
• Substantial and consistent differences in all measured variables were found between laboratory (treadmill) and field (track) conditions.
• High test-retest reliability (alpha > 0.9) was confirmed for velocity and HR at RPE 11.

Conclusions:

• The RPE method is a valid and reliable tool for monitoring and regulating exercise intensity in both laboratory and field settings.
• While differences exist between treadmill and track environments, the RPE protocol demonstrates consistency over several weeks.
• This study supports the use of RPE as a practical approach for exercise prescription and monitoring.