Validation of an Exercise Intensity Grading Tool to Categorise the Exercise Intensity of Community-Based Physical Activity Programs

Grant Turner; Kelly Williams; Kara Lilly; Rachel Cole

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Validation of an Exercise Intensity Grading Tool to Categorise the Exercise Intensity of Community-Based Physical Activity Programs

Journal article

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Validation of an Exercise Intensity Grading Tool to Categorise the Exercise Intensity of Community-Based Physical Activity Programs

Grant Turner, Kelly Williams, Kara Lilly and Rachel Cole

Journal of Fitness Research, Vol.4(3), pp.45-54

2015

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Abstract

Human Movement and Sports Science

health promotion

exercise intensity

exercise adherence

physical activity provider

community engagement

physical activity participant

Introduction: We assessed the validity and reliability of an exercise intensity grading tool (Exercise Grading Tool (EGT)) designed to grade the exercise intensity of community-based physical activity classes as one currently doesn't exist. Methods: Twelve classes participated in the study. Class providers completed the EGT twice for each class over two weeks. Class participants rated their exercise intensity using the Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion Scale (RPE) at class completion. A session-RPE (sRPE) score was calculated by multiplying RPE by the class time. The average session percentage heart rate reserve (%HRR) was also collected from five participants in each class wearing rs400 polar heart rate monitors. Spearman's Rank correlation coefficients were used to assess validity, and interclass correlation coefficients for reliability. Results: Significant positive moderate relationships were found between the EGT and %HRR, sRPE and RPE. Discussion: These relationships varied in strength across sub-population groups, including age categories, gender, self-reported total physical activity levels, length of time attending classes, and class type. Relationships were also found within class EGT exercise intensity categorisations one week apart. Conclusions: The EGT appeared to be a valid measure of class exercise intensity. Overall, the two-category rating system, 'low-moderate' and 'moderate-high', may represent participants' exercise intensity in classes. The tool could be used to assess the intensity levels of community-based classes enabling health professionals and community members to make informed choices about the classes they attend.

Details

Title: Validation of an Exercise Intensity Grading Tool to Categorise the Exercise Intensity of Community-Based Physical Activity Programs
Authors: Grant Turner (Author) - Queensland Health
Kelly Williams (Author) - Preventative Health and Health Promotion, Gold Coast
Kara Lilly (Author) - Partners in Prevention - Public Health and Health Promotion
Rachel Cole (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast - Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering
Publication details: Journal of Fitness Research, Vol.4(3), pp.45-54
Publisher: Australian Institute of Fitness
Date published: 2015
ISSN: 2201-5655
Organisation Unit: University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland; School of Health and Sport Sciences - Legacy; School of Health and Behavioural Sciences - Legacy; School of Health - Public Health
Language: English
Record Identifier: 99449325302621
Output Type: Journal article

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