Which scale measures exercise intensity subjectively?

The Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) Scale is a widely recognized tool used to assess subjective exercise intensity. It allows individuals to rate their level of exertion based on their personal experience during physical activity. This scale typically ranges from 6 to 20, where a lower number indicates very light activity and a higher number signifies very hard exertion. It is particularly useful because it takes into account variations in individual fitness levels and perceptions of effort, providing a personalized measure of how hard someone feels they are working during exercise.

Other options, while related to measuring exercise and intensity, involve objective data or physiological parameters. For instance, the Talk Test assesses intensity based on an individual's ability to converse during exercise, but does not quantify that intensity in the same subjective manner. The MET scale and heart rate monitors provide quantifiable measurements of intensity based on metabolic rates and heart rate response, respectively, but do not capture an individual's personal perception of exertion. Thus, the Borg RPE Scale stands out as a subjective measure that effectively aligns with individual feelings of effort during physical activity.