Relative exercise intensity and energy expenditure of battle rope exercise

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the relative exercise intensity and energy expenditure of a BR interval exercise session in healthy, active individuals. Methods: Fourteen healthy, active male (age 19.6 ± 1.86) participants performed a graded exercise test on the treadmill. Each participant then performed a 14-minute BR workout where each exercise was performed for 15 seconds with a 45 second rest period between exercises. HR, VO2, and RPE were monitored throughout the BR workout. Results: The average HR response was 148 ± 14.9 bpm which corresponded to 79 ± 8.4% of HRmax. The average VO2 response was 26.9 ± 5.27 ml/kg/min which corresponded to 51 ± 9.5% of VO2max. The average RPE response was 14.2 ± 1.88. However, RPE rose steadily throughout the workout reaching a peak of 16.3 ± 2.01. The average energy expenditure was 140.9 ± 24.62 total kcals (10.1 ± 1.53 kcals/min). Conclusion: A BR interval exercise session would be classified as a vigorous intensity exercise which meets ACSM guidelines for improving cardiorespiratory endurance.