The Talk Test

tim_fitbuilt4life

Monitoring your exercise intensity is important for your health and safety. The RPE (Rate of Perceived Exertion)--that all-too-familiar scale of one to ten--gets a lot of attention but another method, known as the Talk Test can also help you find a comfortable, safe workout level.

Using this method, the goal is to work at a level where you can answer a question, but not comfortably carry on a conversation. In simple terms, you would be working out too hard if you have to take a breath between every word you say. Conversely, you would be exercising too easily if you could sing several phrases of a song without breathing hard.

Work at an intensity that allows you to breathe comfortably and rhythmically throughout all phases of your workout. This will ensure a safe and comfortable level of exercise. If you are breathless, or can't talk, you're working too hard! Lower the resistance level and slow down. If you experience dizziness or lightheadedness, you may be overexerting yourself and should stop.

The Talk Test has been confirmed as a simple and accurate method of gauging intensity that doesn't require any equipment or learning. Try your own Talk Test during your next workout (and compare it to your normal RPE assessment.

Time Involved: A few seconds

Body Benefit: Safe, effective workouts

chrisdavey

interesting. Definitely going to be different for different types of exercise. I could chat between sets today doing weights but no way I can do that at mma training!

JohnnyNull

Thanks for posting this. This is useful for all these people rushing out to dump money on HRMs.

Chrisdavey: Indeed. Typically not too much talking while MMA training. But certainly you can get an idea after rolling around. Stand up. Can you talk?

Postscript: Chrisdavey: Thanks for your links, too. You've been posting good stuff.

chrisdavey

Thanks mate


just added you BTW.

JohnnyNull

Yer welcome. And welcome to my HUGE stable of friends. Har har har.