The use of Session-RPE Method for Quantifying Training Load in Diving

Purpose: The aim of the present study was to assess the effectiveness of perceived exertion (session-RPE) in quantifying internal training load in divers. Methods: Six elite divers, three males (age, 25.7 ± 6.1 y; stature, 1.71 ± 0.06 m; body mass, 66.7 ± 1.2 kg) and three females (age, 25.3 ± 0.6 y; stature, 1.63 ± 0.05 m; body mass, 58.3 ± 4.0 kg) were monitored during six training sessions within a week, which included 1 m and 3 m springboard dives. The Edwards summated heart rate zone method was used as a reference measure; the session-RPE rating was obtained using the CR-10 Borg scale modified by Foster and the 100 mm visual analog scale (VAS). Results: Significant correlations were found between CR-10 and VAS session-RPE and the Edwards summated heart rate zone method for training sessions (r range: 0.71-0.96; R 2 range: 0.50-0.92; P < 0.01) and for divers (r range: 0.67-0.96; R 2 range: 0.44-0.92; P < 0.01). Conclusions: These findings suggest that session-RPE can be useful for monitoring internal training load in divers.