Engbreston, B., Fillinger, M., Genson, C., Lynch, M., Redington, M., & Shewchuk, J. (2004). Can the Borg RPE be used to prescribe resistance exercise intensity? Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 36(5), Supplement abstract 67.

This study assessed the use of the 15-point Borg RPE as a tool for evaluating responses to moderate resistance training. Ss performed two knee and two arm-shoulder activities to determine 1-RM. Within 7-10 days after baseline analyses, Ss performed lifts of 20, 40, 60, and 80% of 1-RM on the four exercises. RPE was determined for each lift.

RPE evaluated the changes in task demand reliably and accurately. Within and between S variability were of similar ranges to those used for sub-maximal aerobic exercise. RPE can be used to predict percentage values of 1-RM.

Implication. RPE can be used to predict sub-maximal loads of resistance exercises.

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