Ross, J. H., Moreau, K. L., Whaley, M. H., Kaminsky, L. A., & Ridenour, T. A. (1996). Comparison of blood lactate concentration and ratings of perceived exertion during two standard treadmill protocols. Medicine and Science in Exercise and Sports, 28(5), Supplement abstract 422.

Ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were assessed at the stages of each of two exercise formats: the Balke and Bruce protocols. Differences in blood lactate concentrations (BLC) and RPE estimates were observed between the two protocols. It was concluded that the RPE differences were due partly to the differences in BLC.

There is a suggestion in this study that RPE may become less reliable as blood lactate accumulates.

Implication. RPE is affected by the lactate accumulated in a task.

Return to Table of Contents for this issue.