Which population may find the RPE scale less reliable for heart rate estimation?

The Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) scale is a subjective tool that allows individuals to rate their level of exertion during physical activity. Its reliability for estimating heart rate can vary among different populations, primarily due to age, physiological factors, and fitness levels.

Elderly individuals, children, and obese individuals may find the RPE scale less reliable for several reasons. The elderly might have altered cardiovascular responses, making their perceived exertion not accurately reflect their actual heart rate. Children may also struggle to understand the scale and may not have the experience to provide an accurate self-assessment of effort. Obese individuals may experience greater physiological strain that could lead to discrepancies between their perceived exertion and heart rate.

In contrast, healthy adults, professional athletes, and individuals with high fitness levels generally have a better ability to gauge their exertion accurately. These groups often possess greater familiarity with their physiological responses during exercise, making their RPE ratings more consistent with actual heart rate measurements. Their training and exercise experience can lead to a more refined awareness of body signals, resulting in a more reliable use of the RPE scale for estimating heart rate.