Exertion.

The purpose of this research was to investigate how accurate trained lifters were
at gauging intra-set rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) in the squat, bench press, and
deadlift. Ten resistance-trained males completed four sets to failure with 80% of their
one-repetition maximum (1RM) and verbally indicated when they believed they were at a
“6” and “9” RPE. Across all sets and all lifts, the called 9 RPE was more accurate than
the called 6 RPE. Additionally, RPE calls were more accurate during set four vs. set one
on the squat and deadlift at both the called 6 and 9 RPEs. Further bench press RPE calls
were more accurate than squat and deadlift RPE at the called 6, while both bench and
deadlift RPE calls were more accurate than squat RPEs at the called 9. Importantly across
all sets all RPE calls assessed repetitions in reserve within one repetition of precision.