Construct and Concurrent Validation of OMNI–Kayak Rating of Perceived Exertion Scale

Abstract

This study tested the concurrent and construct validity of a newly developed OMNI–Kayak Scale, testing 8 male kayakers who performed a flatwater load-incremented “shuttle” test over a 500-m course and 3 estimation-production trials over a 1,000-m course. Velocity, blood lactate concentration, heart rate, and rating of perceived exertion (RPE), using the OMNI–Kayak RPE Scale and the Borg 6–20 Scale were recorded. OMNI–Kayak Scale RPE was highly correlated with velocity, the Borg 6–20 Scale RPE, blood lactate, and heart rate for both load-incremented test (rs = .87–.96), and estimation trials (rs = .75–.90). There were no significant differences among velocities, heart rate and blood lactate concentration between estimation and production trials. The OMNI–Kayak RPE Scale showed concurrent and construct validity in assessing perception of effort in flatwater kayaking and is a valid tool for self-regulation of exercise intensity.