Perceived exertion of absolute work during a military physical training program

The purpose of this study was to compare the rating of perceived exertion (RPE) and heart rate (HR) in two groups of 60 military personnel who differed in their level of fitness as determined by maximal oxygen uptake (O₂ 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 and 11 months, respectively. RPE and HR were measured at the end of each min of a 6-min run at an absolute workload of 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.