How the Rate Perceived Exertion Scale (RPE SCALE) Helps You Exercise Just Right
Written By Dr. Katie Nathan PT, DPT, NCS
Have you ever wondered if you're pushing yourself too hard during exercise? Or maybe not pushing hard enough?
The most specific way to measure your exercise intensity level is by monitoring your heart rate, but not everyone has a way to do that. Also, due to some medical conditions and medications some people’s heart rate won’t elevate easily with exertion.
Â
The Rate Perceived Exertion Scale (RPE Scale) is another way to monitor your exercise. The RPE Scale is a way to measure how hard your body feels like it's working during physical activity. It's like a kind of "feeling scale" for exercise. The scale usually ranges from 0 to 10, where:
-
0 means you're not doing any activity at all (like sitting or lying down)
-
5-6 means you're working at a moderate level
-
10 means you're working extremely hard giving your maximum possible effort, like sprinting as fast as you can
If you use the RPE Scale, you'll be able to make sure you're not pushing too hard or not working hard enough. It's like having a personal exercise coach right inside your head! If you are pushing yourself with your exercise, it is ideal to shoot for 6-8/10 on the RPE scale.
Next time you're exercising, give the RPE Scale a try. Remember, you're the boss of your body, and the RPE Scale is your trusty sidekick.
Click here to claim your copy of the RPE Scale and start monitoring the intensity of your workouts today!
Â
Â
Freebie me up!
Coming to your inbox in 3…2…1…
9 KEY ELEMENTS TO HAVE IN
YOUR EXERCISE PROGRAM
WHEN YOU HAVE PD
Â
Your information is never shared, unsubscribe anytime