Observation of OMNI scale of perceived exertion during fire suppression training

Ratings of perceived exertion in 66 firefighters before, during, and immediately after performing 20 min. of fire suppression training were self-reported by the participants using the OMNI Walk-Run Scale and also recorded by a trained observer. The observer used the same definition of perceived exertion, instructions, and high and low anchoring procedures as the participants. Self-reported and observed ratings of perceived exertion did not differ before or during fire suppression training. Significant differences were noted between the self-reported and observed ratings immediately after fire suppression training. These findings support the use of direct observation to provide estimates of ratings of perceived exertion during fire suppression training.