One repetition maximum prediction models for children using the OMNI RPE Scale.

This investigation developed statistical models to estimate one repetition maximum (1 RM) muscular strength using submaximal ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) as predictor variables. Ten- to 14-year-old girls (n = 35) and boys (n = 35) performed two sets (10 repetitions) of biceps curl (BC) and knee extension (KE) exercise using weights approximating 30% and 50% 1 RM. RPE was assessed during the final repetition of each set using the children's OMNI Resistance Exercise Scale (0-10). Sex-specific statistical models predicted 1 RM using RPE derived from both sets of BC and KE exercises. For both girls and boys, RPE ranged from 3.7 to 6.6 for BC and 4.1 to 7.2 for KE. Group mean 1 RM was (a) girls: BC, 7.44 kg, KE, 13.25 kg and (b) boys: BC, 9.19 kg, KE, 16.24 kg. One repetition maximum prediction models for girls were significant (P < 0.01) for BC (r = 0.87) and KE (r = 0.89). One repetition maximum prediction models for boys were significant (P < 0.01) for BC (r = 0.89) and KE (r = 0.87). The RPE predictors were practical and accurate measures, making the 1 RM models potentially applicable when assessing large numbers of children in short time periods.

Observation of perceived exertion in children using the OMNI pictorial scale.

PURPOSE: Concurrent and construct validity of a kinematic exertional observation procedure was examined for 10- to 14-yr-old female (N = 22) and male (N = 22) healthy children. METHODS: A load-incremented treadmill test protocol employing speed/grade changes every 3 min was used. RPE for the overall body (RPE-Overall), legs (RPE-Legs), and chest (RPE-Chest) were simultaneously estimated by an independent observer and self-rated by a subject during each treadmill stage using the Children's OMNI-Walk/Run Scale. Subjects' HR and oxygen consumption (VO2) were measured during each stage. Concurrent validity was established by correlating the observer's RPE with the subject's HR and VO2. Construct validity was examined by correlating submaximal RPE estimated by the observer with RPE estimated by the subject. RESULTS: The range of responses for the females and males was VO2 = 18.4-43.5 mL x kg(-1) x min(-1), HR = 121-185 bpm, and OMNI Scale RPE- (Overall, -Legs, -Chest) ranging from 1 to 9. Observer RPE (Overall, -Legs, -Chest) for the female and male subjects ranged from 1 to 9. For both female and male groups regression analyses indicated that observer's RPE distributed as a positive function of subject's HR and VO2; r = 0.80-0.91 (P < 0.01). Observer's RPE distributed as a positive function of subject's RPE for both females and males; r = 0.87-0.92 (P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Results support the validity of a direct kinematic observation procedure to estimate OMNI Scale RPE for female and male children performing treadmill exercise. Exertional observation provides an unobtrusive perceptual estimate of exercise intensity and could be included in standardized physical activity assessments for children.