RATE OF PERCEIVED EXERTION
Rate of Perceived Exertion (R.P .E.) is one of the easiest ways to monitor exercise
intensity. By becoming familiar with the RPE scale, you can continually assess your
level of intensity and insure a level of exertion that is comfortable. An increase in
exercise intensity is directly related to elevation in exercise heart rate. Conse-
quently RPE can be used alone or together with heart rate when monitoring exercise
intensity.
RPE SCALE
0
Nothing at all
.5
Very, very weak
1
Very weak
2
Weak
3
Moderate
4
Somewhat strong
5
Strong
6
7
Very strong
8
9
10 Very, very, strong
Maximal
The recommended RPE range for most people is between 3 (moderate) and 5
(strong). The RPE should be independent of your pace; it is dependent on the
feelings caused by the exertion.
5 0