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.

SOURCE: News Medical.net

Reference Source 116
October 4, 2004

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