Fitness characteristics and perceived exertion in women with fibromyalgia

Objectives: 1. Determine the aerobic fitness level of women with fibromyalgia; 2. Ascertain current exercise patterns; 3. Evaluate perceived exertion. Methods: Ninety-five women were tested utilizing modified Balke treadmill protocol and Gould metabolic chart. Ratings of perceived exertion [RPE] were measured [Bord, 1982] and weekly Training Index [TI] calculated [Hagberg, 1986]. Results: 1.78 [83%] were not engaging in regular exercise; 2.61 [65%] were below average aerobic fitness; 3.48 [51%] perceived themselves to be working at the expected intensity; 4.28 [29%] were unable to reach anaerobic threshold but perceived themselves to be working at a higher than expected intensity. Conclusions: 1. Most fibromyalgia patients are unfit and not engaging in regular exercise; 2. RPE is an appropriate method for monitoring intensity for only 50% of the patients tested.