Validating the relation between heart rate and Perceived Exertion in a judo competition

The objective of this study is to analyze Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) validity as an indicator of the judolka's effort during a competition. Therefore, 8 judokas who were taking part in an international competition, were monitored to register their heart rate (HR) during each combat. At the end of each combat, the participants indicated their effort perception by use of a 15 degree chart. In order to make a statistical analysis, a measure, called Effort Index (I-p), was created. This index integrates judolka's effort during the combat, expressed in beats per minute (bpm), and the combat length. Results showed a significant correlation between I-p and RIPE (p < 0.001). We can conclude that RIPE is a good effort indicator in a judo competition and therefore, it could be also a valid tool to control and plan judo training sessions.