Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine if differences exist in ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) at a predetermined relative heart rate between two standard treadmill protocols and steady state exercise in a field setting. Healthy male and female volunteers were maximally tested using the standard Bruce and a modified Balke (3.0 mph with 2.5% grade each two minutes) protocols. Each subject was randomly assigned to one treadmill protocol first, and then completed the second test forty-eight hours later. Within forty-eight hours following the second tradmill test, all subjects completed a field exercise trial consisting of an 800-m run. During the field trial an investigator paced each subject to an individualized target heart rate (75% maximal heart rate reserve) calculated from the treadmill tests. During the last 50 m of the field trial, RPE values were recorded. Comparisons of the rating of perceived exertion at target heart rate (RPE at THR) were made using a 2-way (Gender x Trials) ANOVa with repeated measures across trials. There was a significant gender x trials interaction for RPE at THR, with males reporting significantly higher values during the treadmill tests as compared to the females. Verf.-Referat (gekuerzt)