Date of Award
Spring 5-7-2025
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Exercise Science
Department
Exercise Science and Sport Management
Committee Chair/First Advisor
Gerald Mangine
Second Advisor
Jacob Grazer
Third Advisor
Tiffany Esmat
Abstract
This study examined whether a speed-based metric, expressed as percent of maximal speed (%MS), could serve as a practical and accurate method for quantifying intensity in high-intensity functional training (HIFT). Traditional intensity markers—heart rate (HR), blood lactate concentration ([La-]), and rating of perceived exertion (RPE)—were compared to %MS during low- and high-volume (LV, HV) workouts using a combination of correlation and agreement analyses. Twelve males and twelve females completed a baseline assessment followed by two experimental workout sessions. Participants wore HR monitors, provided pre- and post-exercise [La-] samples and RPE scores, and performed maximal speed tests for each workout movement. Spearman correlations and Bland-Altman plots were used to evaluate relationships and agreement between %MS and traditional markers. Results indicated weak agreement between %MS and HR, RPE, and [La-]. The best-performing indicator was single round %MS, which demonstrated stronger and more consistent relationships with movement-based metrics than with internal physiological markers. Power Clean (PC) %1-RM also emerged as a potential screening tool for predicting pacing strategy. These findings suggest that round %MS may offer a field-ready, scalable option for tracking workout intensity, particularly when traditional lab-based metrics are unavailable or impractical.