rating of perceived exertion (RPE)

rating of perceived exertion (RPE), a scale for quantifying perceived exertion, with 6 being extremely light exertion and 20 being extremely hard. The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) has recalibrated the scale from 1 to 10. The ACSM has also established minimal guidelines pertaining to the frequency, intensity, and duration of exercise needed to produce a training effect.