What is one method to determine exercise intensity without a graded exercise test (GTT)?

Determining exercise intensity is crucial for tailoring training programs to an individual’s fitness level. One commonly used method without performing a graded exercise test is taking the resting heart rate and adding an arbitrary value to it. This method relies on understanding that an individual's heart rate responds progressively to exercise intensity.

When someone exercises, their heart rate increases in correlation to the effort they're expending. Knowing their resting heart rate provides a baseline. By adding an arbitrary value, which can be predefined based on general exercise intensity levels (light, moderate, vigorous), individuals can estimate their target heart rate for different exercise intensities. This method is relatively simple and does not require specialized equipment or settings, making it very accessible for many individuals.

Other methods, such as monitoring blood glucose levels or using field running tests and cycling ergometry, can also determine performance and exertion but do not specifically focus on defining exercise intensity in the same way. Blood glucose monitoring is more related to metabolic assessment rather than direct measurement of exercise intensity. Field running tests and cycling ergometry require more specific conditions and may not be as practical for all individuals looking for a straightforward way to assess the intensity of their workouts.