Submaximal, Perceptually Regulated Exercise Testing Predicts Maximal Oxygen Uptake: A Meta-Analysis Study.

Background: Recently, several authors have proposed the use of a submaximal 'perceptually regulated exercise test' (PRET) to predict maximal oxygen uptake ( $$ \dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2\;\hbox{max} } $$ ). The PRET involves asking the individual to self-regulate a series of short bouts of exercise corresponding to pre-set ratings of perceived exertion (RPE). The individual linear relationship between RPE and oxygen uptake (RPE: $$ \dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2} $$ ) is then extrapolated to the $$ \dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2\;\hbox{max} } $$ , which corresponds to the theoretical maximal RPE (RPE). Studies suggest that prediction accuracy from this method may be better improved during a second PRET. Similarly, some authors have recommended an extrapolation to RPE rather than RPE. Objectives: The purpose of the meta-analysis was to examine the validity of the method of predicting $$ \dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2\;\hbox{max} } $$ from the RPE: $$ \dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2} $$ during a PRET, and to determine the level of agreement and accuracy of predicting $$ \dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2\;\hbox{max} } $$ from an initial PRET and retest using RPE and RPE. Data Sources: From a systematic search of the literature, 512 research articles were identified. Study Eligibility Criteria: The eligible manuscripts were those which used the relationship between the RPE and $$ \dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2} $$ , and used only the Borg's RPE scale. Participants and Interventions: Ten studies ( n = 274 individuals) were included. Study Appraisal and Synthesis Methods: For each study, actual and predicted $$ \dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2\;\hbox{max} } $$ from four subgroup outcomes (RPE in the initial test, RPE in the retest, RPE in the initial test, RPE in the retest) were identified, and then compared. The magnitude of the difference regardless of subgroup outcomes was examined to determine if it is better to predict $$ \dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2\;\hbox{max} } $$ from extrapolation to RPE or RPE. The magnitude of differences was examined for the best PRET (test vs retest). Results: The results revealed that $$ \dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2\;\hbox{max} } $$ may be predicted from RPE: $$ \dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2} $$ during PRET in different populations and in various PRET modalities, regardless of the subgroup outcomes. To obtain greater accuracy of predictions, extrapolation to RPE during a retest may be recommended. Limitations: The included studies reported poor selection bias and data collection methods. Conclusions and Implications of Key Findings: The $$ \dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2\;\hbox{max} } $$ may be predicted from RPE: $$ \dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2} $$ during PRET, especially when $$ \dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2\;\hbox{max} } $$ is extrapolated to RPE during a second PRET. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]