Sex‐ and age‐related differences in the rating of perceived exertion after high‐intensity rowing exercise during childhood and adolescence

The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of age and sex on the rating of perceived exertion (RPE) during high‐intensity exercise and determine whether mechanical and physiological parameters could be predictors of RPE during childhood and adolescence. Forty‐three boys and 36 girls performed a 60‐s all‐out test on a rowing ergometer and were categorized by age group (10.0–11.9; 12.0–13.9; 14.0–15.9; 16.0–17.9 years) and sex. Ratings of perceived exertion were assessed using the 6–20 RPE and CR‐10 scales and analyzed with respect to mechanical work rate (Wtot), post‐exercise peak blood lactate concentration ([La]peak), and peak minute ventilation (V̇Epeak). Multilevel regression modeling revealed a significant influence of Wtot, [La]peak and V̇Epeak on 6–20 RPE and CR‐10 scores (r2 = .34 and .36, p