Using the omni rate of perceived exertion (RPE) scale to self-regulate exercise intensity to induce cardiovascular and peripheral adaptations during soccer training

Training at Ventilatory breakpoint (Vpt) is an optimal intensity to induce cardiovascular fitness. This study investigated the utilization of the OMNI Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE) Scale during female soccer players’ training sessions that corresponded to Vpt. Ten females’ (age: 23.30 ± 1.49 years, height: 161.10 ± 7.50 cm, body fat: 22.20 ± 3.90 %) Vpt was determined by a treadmill test followed by two 30-minute field soccer sessions (S1 and S2 – warm up: 5 minutes, activity: 15 minutes and cool down: 5 minutes). Results indicated that Vpt was established at RPE 4.89 ± 0.93. There was no significant difference for HR and RPE between both field sessions. (Warm up: HR: S1: 129 ± 11.2 beats•min-1 vs. S2: 125 ± 7.40 beats•min-1, p = 0.08; RPE S1: 2.30 ± 0.68 vs. S2: 2.30 ± 0.57, p = 0.34), Activity: HR: S1: 162.50 ± 14.69 beats•min-1 vs. S2: 163.70 ± 8.92 beats•min-1, p = 0.68, RPE S1: 4.90 ± 0.99 vs. S2: 5.00 ± 0.47, p = 0.73; Cool down: HR: S1: 108.10 ± 17.98 beats•min-1 vs. S2: 108.20 ± 11.56 beats•min-1, p = 0.97; RPE S1: 1.40 ± 0.52 vs. S2: 1.50 ± 0.52, p = 0.59). RPE and HR were significantly different between warm up, activity (RPE: 2.2 ± 0.79 vs. 5.0 ± 0.47, p = 0.00; HR:132.30 ± 7.89 beats•min-1 vs. 167.00 ± 2.05 beats•min-1, p = 0.00), activity and cool down (RPE: 5.0 ± 0.47 vs. 1.7 ± 0.48, p = 0.00; HR: 106.40 ± 7.03 beats•min-1 vs. 167.00 ± 2.05 beats•min-1, p = 0.00). Hence, participants were able to self-regulate exercise intensity at Vpt (RPE 4 to 6) during soccer field sessions which was at optimal intensity without excessive fatigue and may reduce long term risk of injuries. Appropriate exercise intensity is vital to enable students to enjoy the benefits and pleasure of an active lifestyle and reduce levels of reluctance towards physical activity.

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