Influence of Instructions on Perceptually-Based Ratings

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of the expected running duration or distance on ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) and estimated time limit (ETL) values. Thirty-nine males performed an incremental test to measure their maximal aerobic velocity (MAV). Then, the subjects realised a constant velocity test (90 % MAV) to determine their time limit (Tlim) and distance limit (Dlim). Three homogenous groups were made up. Subsequently, all the groups performed 2 similar tests: a test at 90 % MAV for 80 % Tlim and a test at 90 % MAV for 80 % Dlim, each group with different instructions: group 1 (G1) was expected to maintain the velocity for 60 % Tlim (and Dlim), while group 2 (G2) and group 3 (G3) received instructions to maintain this velocity for 80 and 100 % Tlim (and Dlim), respectively. During these tests, RPE and ETL values were collected and compared by using a three-way repeated measures ANOVA. The statistical analysis revealed no significant group or test effect on RPE and ETL (p > .05). As a consequence, in this present study, it seems that the exercise instructions have not influenced significantly the hardness of effort (i.e., RPE) and the subjective estimation of endurance (i.e., ETL).

Key words

ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) scale - estimated time limit (ETL) scale - expectation - deception - teleoanticipation

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