Validation of adult omni perceived exertion scales for elliptical ergometry

This investigation examined the validity of newly developed Adult OMNI Elliptical Ergometer Ratings of Perceived Exertion Scales. 60 men and women performed a graded exercise test on an elliptical ergometer. Oxygen consumption (VO2), heart rate (HR), and ratings of perceived exertion were recorded at each stage from the Borg 15 Category scale and two different OMNI scales. One scale employed an elliptical ergometer format of the OMNI Picture System of Perceived Exertion. The second scale modified verbal, numerical, and pictorial descriptors at the low end of the response range. Concurrent and construct validity were established by the positive relation between ratings of perceived exertion from each OMNI scale with VO2, HR, and Borg scale ratings of perceived exertion (men, r = .94-.97; women, r = .93-.98). Validity was established for both OMNI scales, indicating either metric can be used to estimate ratings of perceived exertion during partial weight-bearing exercise.