Validation of a rating scale of perceived exertion in young children

The aim of this study was to develop and validate a scale rating the percei ved exertion of young children (RPE-C) who do not read. This scale presents seven pictures showing a man who becomes progressively fatigued. In order to evaluate this scale, we examined its reliability and sensitivity. Thirte en children (aged 5 to 6 years) completed two identical incremental maximal running trials during a period of one week. A group of 12 adolescents and a group of 12 adults also tested the RPE-C by performing one trial under th e same experimental conditions as the child group. RPE-C was recorded at th e end of each load level. Statistical analysis revealed significant effects for velocity (F = 23.98, p < 0.0001) with non-significant effects for the trials. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) revealed an acceptable rel iability of RPE-C at low and high exercise intensities but also showed a lo w reliability at intermediate load levels (0.17 < ICC < 0.77). A significan t correlation between RPE-C and heart rate (r(2) = 0.61, p < 0.0001)was obs erved in children. However, the r(2) level was lower than that observed for the adolescent or adult groups. This finding demonstrates the sensitivity of RPE-C to discriminate the effects of age on perceived exertion. RPE-C se ems to be a good tool which can be used in young children to monitor exerci se performed at low and high intensities.