What effort level is indicated by an RPE of 15?

An RPE, or Rating of Perceived Exertion, of 15 falls within the Borg Scale which typically ranges from 6 to 20. The scale is designed to help individuals gauge their level of exertion during physical activity. A rating of 15 suggests a perception of exertion that corresponds to a moderately hard level of effort.

Specifically, an RPE of 15 is often interpreted as being around 80% of one’s maximum effort during exercise. This intensity level indicates that the individual feels they are working quite hard, but it is still manageable. It implies a significant cardiovascular and muscular strain where conversation would become challenging but not impossible.

In geriatric physical therapy, understanding these levels of exertion is crucial for safely progressing exercise prescriptions while accommodating the physical limitations often associated with aging.