title: Perceived exertion and training load during self-selected and imposed-intensity resistance exercise in untrained women.
abstract: The purpose of the present study was to examine differences in ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) and the weight lifted (training load) during self-selected and imposed-intensity bouts of acute resistance exercise (RE). Nineteen untrained college-aged women completed 2 bouts of acute resistance exercise. During 1 session, 3 sets of 4 exercises were performed using a training load of 75% of 1 repetition maximum. Conversely, during the other session, each set and exercise were completed using a self-selected training load. Assessments of RPE and training load were obtained following each set during both imposed-intensity and self-selected-intensity sessions. Results of 2 (intensity) x 3 (set) repeated measures multivariate analyses of variance revealed that, when compared to self-selected RE, RPE and resistance used were significantly higher and the number of repetitions completed per set was significantly lower during imposed-intensity RE. These findings demonstrate that the training load and perceptions of effort elicited during conventional RE prescriptions differ from the level of exertion untrained women self-select. Additionally, it appears that untrained women may not self-select a relative intensity sufficient to stimulate meaningful improvements in muscular hypertrophy or strength. The implications of these findings for the adoption and maintenance of resistance exercise participation are discussed.
authors.affiliation: Division of Health Behavior and Health Promotion, School of Public Health, Ohio State University, Columbus 43210, USA. bfocht@sph.osu.edu
authors.forename: Brian C
authors.initials: BC
authors.lastname: Focht
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D010806:Physical Education and Training / Q000379:methods*; D005082:Physical Exertion / Q000502:physiology*; D014891:Weight Lifting / Q000502:physiology*