Perceived Exertion of Absolute Work during a Military Physical Training Program.

摘要

The purpose of this study was to compare the rating of perceived exertion (RPE) and heart rate (HR) in two groups of 40 military personnel who differed in their level of fitness as determined by VO2 max. At an initial testing period (T1), Group I represented a sample of personnel not participating in a training program while Group II had engaged in an endurance program (2-4 mile run/day) for 5 months. Six months, later (T2), Groups I and II were retested after having participated in the program for 6-11 months respectively. RPE and HR were measured at the end of each min. of a 6-min. run at an absolute workloadof 6 mph, 0% grade on the treadmill. At T1, Group II had a significantly lower HR at each min of work but no difference existed in RPE between groups at any time during the run. At T2, both groups showed a significant decrease in HR and RPE during each min when compared longitudinally. The data suggest that the perception of the intensity of absolute work does not differ in groups differing in their level of fitness when studied cross-sectionally. However, significant reductions in perceived exertion occur following physical training. (Author)