RPE scale

Definition

Rate of Perceived Exertion—a subjective 1-10 scale measuring how hard you're working, allowing coaches to program training intensity while you lie to yourself about whether that was really a 7 or secretly a 5.

Example Usage

Coach asked for sets at RPE 8, but my ego convinced me RPE 9.5 was basically the same thing.

Origin

Developed by Swedish psychologist Gunnar Borg in the 1960s

Fun Fact

The original Borg scale ran from 6-20 to roughly match heart rate when multiplied by 10, but the simplified 1-10 version is now more popular despite being less scientifically nerdy.

Source: Exercise science and training methodology

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Intermediate

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