If you are able to talk while you exercise, you probably are performing
at a proper intensity level, according to researchers who support
the "Talk Test."
The "Talk Test" is a method of judging the intensity
of exercise and can be used to keep people from overexerting themselves.
A proper level of exercise is the most effective, experts say, adding
that everyone should monitor their workouts.
In a study, researchers tested this technique on 16 healthy participants
using two types of exercise equipment -- a treadmill and a cycle
ergometer. The subjects, who were moderately active, recited the
Pledge of Allegiance during progressively more difficult stages
of exercise. Following the speech, researchers asked participants
if they could speak comfortably and recorded their answers.
Participants' exercise intensity levels were also measured by established
markers -- heart rate, perceived exertion and ventilatory threshold.
This threshold is the point where breathing increases disproportionate
to the increase of workload. In other words, it indicates when an
exerciser is approaching his intensity limit.
When results from accepted tests were compared with the "Talk
Test," researchers found that they were comparable.
Investigators concluded that the "Talk Test" is an acceptable
form of monitoring exertion. In fact, they recommend it as a practical
and easy tool to keep intensity levels in check.
News
Medical.net September 10, 2004
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