Application of different load quantification methods during a karate training session

Abstract

The ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) of the session have stood out among the methods of load training quantification (LTQ) in some modalities, mainly due to their low cost and easy applicability. However, there are no reports in the literature on their application in the karate modality. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between session-RPE with Banister TRIMP, Edwards TL, Lucia TRIMP, Stagno TRIMP and Lac TRIMP. Eight well-trained athletes of both sexes (21.6 ± 5.5 years; 58.8 ± 13.8 weight; 170.0 ± 0.11 height) performed a single training session with continuous heart rate monitoring, blood lactate collections every 10 min and RPE quantification through the CR-10 scale, 30 min after the end of the training, for subsequent calculation of training impulse. Significant correlations (P<0.05) were found between session-RPE and Banister TRIMP (r = 0.79), Edward TL (r = 0.81), Lucia TRIMP (r = 0.71), Stagno TRIMP (r = 0.71) and Lac TRIMP (r = 0.91). Thus, the results of this study suggest the session-RPE as an efficient method from the LTQ in shotokan karate athletes.