Water aerobics training: selection and control of the exercise intensity using the Borg scale

Abstract

To evaluate the opportunity of Borg scale using for applying and monitoring the aerobic training intensity in the pool as well as the relationship between the Borg scale and the heart rate (HR) in the aquatic environment. The study involved 11 healthy individuals (mean age 46.4±7.5 years). After a cardiopulmonary test on a treadmill and a probation lesson the training was conducted in the pool using a set of basic aerobic exercises lasting 45 minutes. During training the subjects had to maintain a load level corresponding to 12-14 points on the Borg scale. Every 10 minutes of the main training part the heart rate was calculated and the rating of perceived exertion (RPE) was determined according to the Borg scale. The average heart rate in the main part of the training was 126.8±14.0 beats/min. The intensity of aerobic exercise was 82% of the maximum heart rate determined during the cardiopulmonary test and 68% of the reserve heart rate which corresponded to a high level of intensity. Between the heart rate and the Borg scale a significant correlation was found in the first period of training (r=0.67, p<0.02). At RPE 12-13 in almost 1/2 cases the subjects felt a subjectively lower intensity of the load than they actually performed (by heart rate) while at RPE 14 a high percentage of coincidences was observed between different measurement methods (p<0.05). During water aerobics training the use of the Borg scale to prescribe and maintain a level of exercise allows to achieve a sufficient intensity level which is necessary to improve cardiorespiratory fitness and physical performance in order to influence risk factors for cardiovascular disease. The Borg Scale as a stand-alone method of controlling intensity when using water-based aerobic training, especially with high-intensity training should be used with caution. Further investigation is needed to determine the relation between subjective measures of exercise intensity and HR and validity of their use during water aerobics training.