Session Rating of Perceived Exertion as an Efficient Tool for Individualized Resistance Training Progression

Gomes, RL, Lixandrão, ME, Ugrinowitsch, C, Moreira, A, Tricoli, V, and Roschel, H. Session rating of perceived exertion as an efficient tool for individualized resistance training progression. J Strength Cond Res 36(4): 971-976, 2022-The present study aimed to investigate the effects of an individualized resistance training (RT) progression model based on the session rating of perceived exertion (RPE) on gains in muscle mass and strength when compared with a conventional predetermined progression method (PP). Twenty previously trained young male subjects were randomly allocated to 1 of the 2 groups: RPE (n = 10) or PP (n = 10). Muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) and maximum dynamic strength were assessed at baseline and after 6 weeks. The RPE-based progression model resulted in a lower number of high-intensity sessions compared with the PP-based model. Despite this, both groups showed significant and similar increases in CSA (p < 0.0001; RPE = 6.55 ± 5.27% and PP = 9.65 ± 3.63%) and strength (p < 0.0001; RPE = 9.68 ± 4.57% and PP = 9.28 ± 4.01%) after the intervention period. No significant between-group difference was observed for total training volume (RPE = 45,366.00 ± 10,190.00 kg and PP = 47,779.00 ± 5,685.00 kg; p = 0.52). Our results showed that an RT progression model based on session-to-session physiological response assessments resulted in fewer high-intensity training sessions while allowing for similar gains in muscle strength and mass. Thus, trainees are encouraged to adopt session RPE as a potential tool to control workload progression throughout a training period and allowing the optimization of training stimulus on an individual basis.