Validity of a New Perceived Exertion Scale for Children

Abstract

This study evaluated the validity and reliability of a newly developed RPE scale in 30 healthy children (17 males, 13 females) with a mean ± SD age of 9.6 ± 1.5 yrs. Each subject performed a graded exercise test (GXT) on an electromechanically braked cycle ergometer using a modified McMaster protocol. Oxygen consumption (VO2) was determined by the open- circuit method and heart rate (HR) was monitored by ECG radiotelemetry. At the end of each exercise stage, the subjects rated their level of perceived exertion using the newly developed RPE scale. The results demonstrated systematic increases in V02, HR, and RPE with increased workload. Strong correlations were found between RPE and VO2 (r = 0.98), and RPE and HR (r = 0.96). To evaluate reliability, nineteen subjects completed a second GXT on a separate day. Analysis of the between day HR and VO2 versus RPE response curves revealed small nonsignificant mean differences (p > 0.05) at the midpoint (RPE = 5) and at peak exercise. These findings support the use of the Children's RPE Scale as a monitoring tool during GXT. Further research should be conducted to confirm the validity of this new scale with a larger sample of healthy children and in pediatric patient populations across alternative modes of exercise testing and training.