Affective and metabolic responses to self-selected intensity cycle exercise in young men

Abstract

Self-selected intensity exercise has resulted in greater affective responses (AR) compared to prescribed exercise of similar intensity and many individuals self-select intensity at a moderate level identified by metabolic analysis. As such, self-selected intensity may be an effective alternative for exercise prescription designed to promote adherence and result in health and fitness benefits. Self-selected intensity has not been well described for many subject populations and exercise modes. Therefore, the purpose of this investigation was to measure affective and metabolic responses during self-selected intensity cycle exercise in college-aged men. Thirty-three men (22.4 ± 2.2 yr) performed a peak oxygen consumption test and a 20 min self-selected trial on a cycle ergometer on separate days. Oxygen consumption (VO₂) was measured continuously throughout both exercise sessions. AR were measured using the Feeling Scale and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) using the OMNI Scale every 5 min during the self-selected trial. χ² analysis was used to determine if a significant proportion of subjects self-selected intensity above 50% VO₂ reserve (VO₂R), defined as a threshold for moderate-intensity exercise and potential cardiorespiratory fitness benefits by American College of Sports Medicine. Mean self-selected intensity was 57.6 ± 11.1%VO₂peak and 89.3 ± 20.2% of ventilatory threshold. Twenty eight of 33 subjects self-selected intensity above 50% VO₂R (p < .05). Self-selected intensity was associated with positive AR (1.8 ± 1.4) and mean RPE of 4.0 ± 1.5. In college-aged men, self-selected intensity cycle exercise was performed at a moderate intensity level and elicited positive AR for most subjects. Therefore, self-selected intensity could be an effective component of an exercise prescription for this population.

Keywords: Feeling scale; OMNI scale; Perceived exertion; Preferred intensity.