The application of differential ratings of perceived exertion to Australian Football League matches.

Objectives: To investigate the application of differential ratings of perceived exertion for the examination of internal load during Australian Football League (AFL) matches.

Design: Single cohort, observational study.

Methods: Using the centiMax rating of perceived exertion (RPE) scale, 26 professional AFL players provided ratings for match exertion (RPE-M), along with differential ratings for breathlessness (RPE-B), leg exertion (RPE-L), and technical demand (RPE-T) following 129 matches (5.