Session RPE Breakpoints Corresponding to Intensity Thresholds in Elite Open Water Swimmers

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Open Water Swimming

Background:

• Determining training intensity zones is crucial for optimizing endurance performance.
• Session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE) offers a practical method for monitoring training intensity.
• Lactate thresholds (LT1 and LT2) are physiological markers used to define training zones.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the agreement between sRPE breakpoints and physiological lactate thresholds (LT1 and LT2) in elite open water swimmers (OWS).
• To establish specific training intensity zones for elite OWS based on sRPE and lactate data.

Main Methods:

• Six elite OWS completed an incremental 6x500m swimming test.
• Blood lactate concentration (BLC), split time (ST), stroke frequency (SF), and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were recorded.
• LT1 was defined as the highest workload without increased BLC; LT2 was a 2mM increase above LT1.

Main Results:

• Intensity zones were defined as Z1 (≤3), Z2 (4-6), and Z3 (≥7) based on LT1 and LT2.
• The identified sRPE-based intensity zones for OWS were distinct from those reported in other endurance disciplines.

Conclusions:

• The correspondence between sRPE and lactate thresholds in elite OWS suggests a unique physiological response.
• Training intensity zones derived from sRPE in this population may differ from generic endurance training guidelines.
• Further research can refine sRPE-based training zone prescription for open water swimming.