Rate of Perceived Exertion

Heart rate is important but listening to your body also has a lot of advantages. There are more variables involved in how hard you should workout than just heart rate. Your stress level, physical health, emotional health, temperature, humidity, the time of day, the last time you ate and what you ate, all contribute to the intensity at which you should workout. If you listen to your body, it will tell you all of these things.

The rate of perceived exertion (RPE), also know as the Borg scale, was developed by Swedish physiologist G.A.V. Borg. This scale rates exercise intensity from 6 to 20 depending upon how you feel or the perception of your effort.

The scale is as follows:

Rating Perception of Effort

6Minimal

7Very, very light

8Very, very light +

9Very light

10Very light +

11Fairly light

12Comfortable

13Somewhat hard

14Somewhat hard +

15Hard

16Hard +

17Very hard

18Very hard +

19Very, very hard

20Maximal

You can get an approximate heart rate level for each rating by simply adding a zero to each rating. For example a rating of 12 will result in an approximate heart rate of 120 beats per minute. Your RPE will vary depending up the factors discussed earlier. That is the major benefit of this type of training. If your body is strong and rested, you will feel strong and your pace will feel easier. When your body is in this condition, you are able to train harder and the RPE will support this. If you are feeling tired and sluggish, it is because your body needs a break. In this condition, your pace will feel harder. Again, this will show up in your RPE and you will train at the proper level for that day.

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XE Series Elliptical

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Spirit XE 850 owner manual Rate of Perceived Exertion
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XE 850 specifications

The Spirit XE 850 is a state-of-the-art elliptical trainer designed for both commercial gyms and home fitness enthusiasts. It combines an array of innovative technologies and thoughtful design features to enhance the workout experience, making it one of the standout models in the Spirit Fitness lineup.

One of the notable features of the Spirit XE 850 is its robust construction. Built with heavy-duty materials, the frame provides stability and durability, accommodating users of all sizes and fitness levels. The machine boasts a weight capacity of up to 350 pounds, allowing for a wide range of users and ensuring a solid workout environment.

The XE 850 features a large, user-friendly console that displays essential workout metrics such as time, distance, calories burned, heart rate, and resistance level. The high-resolution LCD screen is easy to read from various angles, making it convenient for users during their workout. Additionally, the console includes built-in speakers and Bluetooth compatibility, allowing users to enjoy their favorite music or audio while they exercise.

One of the standout technologies of the Spirit XE 850 is its adjustable stride length. Users can customize the stride to accommodate different body types and workout preferences, which not only boosts comfort but also targets various muscle groups. The elliptical machine is equipped with 20 levels of resistance, providing ample opportunity for users to tailor the intensity of their workouts, whether they're beginners looking to build stamina or seasoned athletes seeking a challenging session.

Another important characteristic of the XE 850 is its ergonomic design. The multi-grip handlebar allows for different hand positions, which helps to engage more muscle groups while ensuring a comfortable grip. The adjustable foot pedals are designed with a slight inward angle, mimicking a natural walking or running motion and minimizing strain on the joints.

For those focused on heart rate training, the Spirit XE 850 includes contact heart rate sensors built into the handlebars, along with the option for wireless heart rate monitoring with compatible chest straps. This feature enables users to stay within their target heart rate zones, optimizing their workout efficiency.

In conclusion, the Spirit XE 850 stands out in the crowded market of elliptical trainers. Combining durability, versatility, and advanced technology, it offers a comprehensive workout solution for users at all fitness levels. Whether for casual users or dedicated athletes, the XE 850 helps create an enjoyable and effective exercise experience.
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