For an intermediate client, what is the recommended intensity range for cardio training?

The recommended intensity range for cardio training for an intermediate client is between 65-74% of maximum heart rate, corresponding to a BORG/RPE of 12-15. This intensity range is recognized as moderate to somewhat hard, which is appropriate for intermediate clients who have a fundamental level of fitness but are ready to progress their cardiovascular conditioning.

At this intensity, clients can sustain exercise while effectively improving their aerobic capacity, cardiovascular health, and endurance. The RPE scale, which runs from 6 to 20, helps individuals gauge their perceived exertion during physical activity. An RPE of 12-15 indicates that the client is working hard enough to achieve cardiovascular benefits while still being able to carry on a conversation, thus maintaining a balance between challenge and sustainability.

This specific intensity also aligns well with training principles aimed at overcoming plateaus common in fitness progression. The options that suggest either too low or too high intensities would not effectively meet the needs of an intermediate client, as they may not provide the right level of challenge to promote further improvements without risking overexertion or not maximizing the training session's benefits.