CR-10 Borg Scale Instructions:

While the subject looks at the rating scale, the experimenter says:

o I will not ask you to specify the feeling, but do select a number that most accurately
corresponds to your perception of the symptom(s).

o If you don’t feel anything, for example, if there is no symptom(s), you answer zero,
nothing at all.

o If you start feeling something, just about noticeable, you answer 0.5 – extremely weak,
just noticeable.

o If you have an extremely strong feeling of symptom(s) you answer 10- extremely strong,
almost maximal. This is the absolute strongest that you have ever experienced.

o The more you feel, the stronger the feeling, the higher the number that you choose.
Keep in mind that there are no wrong numbers. Be honest. Do not think of any other
sensation then the one that I ask you about.

o Do you have any questions?

Note: Let the subject get well acquainted with the rating scale before the test. During the test, let
the subject do the ratings toward the end of every work period, i.e. about 30 seconds before
stopping or changing the workload. If the test must be stopped before the scheduled end of the
work period, let the subject rate the feeling at the moment of stoppage. Ensure that the subject
understands the feeling(s), symptom(s) or focus of what you are trying to rate.

No other verbal cues should be given other than those on the scale itself.

References
Borg, G., Ottoson, D. (1986) Perception of Exertion in Physical Work. Proceedings of an
International Symposium, Stockholm. Sports Documentation Monthly Bulletin, MacMillan,
London. P 346+.

Borg, G. (1990) Psychophysical Scaling with Applications in Physical Work and the Perception of
Exertion. Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment & Health. (16): 55-58.

Borg, G. (1998) Borg's Perceived Exertion and Pain Scales. Human Kinetics, Champaign, Illinois.
pp 104+.

11/12/2007
 Borg CR-10 Scale
Rating of Perceived Exertion
0 Nothing At All

0.3

0.5 Extremely Weak

1 Very Weak

1.5

2 Weak

2.5

3 Moderate

5 Strong

7 Very Strong

10 Extremely Strong

11

• Absolute Max

©Gunner Borg 1981, 1982, 1998

11/12/2007