Han, S-H., Whaley, M. H., & Kaminsky, L. A. (1998). Influence of inquiry frequency on ratings of perceived exertion during graded exercise testing. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 30(5), Supplement abstract 184.

The purpose of this study was to assess if multiple inquiries about perceived exertion during treadmill testing affect the reliability of such assessments. Young men and women (N = 15) performed a graded exercise twice. Borg scale assessments were performed under either of two schedules: once per stage or once per minute. Several physiological measures were also taken at the end of each stage.

There were no differences in physiological measures at any stages of the two exercise trials. When inquiries were made at the end of each stage peak RPEs were similar. However, when inquires were made once per minute peak RPEs were significantly higher.

Implication. RPE measures are likely to be inflated if they are made independently of a stage of an exercise. RPE could be related better to overall perceptions of a "stage" of work rather than a particular instant.

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