Effects of a learning trial on self-regulation of exercise.

Heart rate (HR) and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) are common exercise intensity regulatory strategies, however, some individuals are unable to use these strategies effectively. Alternative or conjunctive strategies may aid in the transition to self-guided programs. The purpose of the present study was to examine the value of a brief, field-based exercise intensity learning trial on self-regulation of intensity during a weeklong exercise program. Forty-two males were randomly assigned to either a paced learning trial (P) or non-paced control (NP), and then one of three intensity feedback groups: HR, HR + RPE, or no feedback (CONT). The paced trial consisted of an 800-m trial at 75 % of maximal heart rate reserve (MHRR) on day one. Subjects then completed four 800-m trials each day for four days and received feedback on deviation from target HR (THR) after each 800-m trial. Four-way MANOVA (pacing x feedback x trials x days) was used to assess the influence of the learning trial on THR deviation scores across the week. The pacing x feedback x trials interaction was significant (Pillai's Trace = 0.36, approximately F (6,70) = 2.56, p = 0.03) and thus, the influence of the learning trial was assessed within feedback group. There were no significant differences in THR deviation scores for P vs. NP within the HR or HR + RPE feedback groups. However, P was significantly more accurate then NP (p < 0.05) within the CONT feedback groups during each trial averaged across the week (T (1) = - 2.6 vs. 5.3; T (2) = 2.6 vs. 14.2; T (3) = 4.6 vs. 16.2; T (4) = 5.3 vs. 20.5 beats . min (-1)). These results demonstrate that a brief intensity learning trial, in the absence of HR or HR+RPE feedback, provided for accurate self-regulation of vigorous exercise training. These results would support the efficacy of a brief intensity learning trial within the context of transitioning an individual to a self-guided exercise program.

Ratings of perceived exertion among standard treadmill protocols and steady state running.

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. Thirty healthy male (N = 15) and female (N = 15) 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 treadmill 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. The total exercise time for the field trial was 4:31 +/- 0:22 and 5:36 +/- 0:47 min for the males and females, respectively. During the last 50 m of the field trial, RPE values were recorded. Comparisons of the rating of perceived exertion at the 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 (BRUCE = 13.5 +/- 1.6 vs 12.2 +/- 1.8; BLAKE = 15.9 +/- 2.3 vs 13.7 +/- 2.4). There was no difference noted between genders for RPE at THR during the field trial.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)