Comparison of perceived exertion ratings during graded peak cycle exercise between cigarette smokers and nonsmokers.

This study compared differentiated Ratings of Perceived Exertion (RPE) for the chest (RPE-Chest) and legs (RPE-Legs) and undifferentiated ratings (RPE-Overall) between cigarette smokers (n = 10) and nonsmokers (n = 10) during graded, peak cycle exercise. Linear regression analyses expressed RPE-Chest, RPE-Leg, and RPE-Overall as a function of VO2 for smokers and nonsmokers. RPE equivalent to 50, 70, and 90% VO2 peak were compared between.