[Exercise Load Classification and Perceptual Difference Awareness Training Based on Exercise Load Entropy Theory in University Students].

The Weber fraction decreased progressively with increasing exercise load level among university students.

• 138 college students completed six incrementally increasing load tests on a cycle ergometer from January to April 2025.
• The Weber fraction decreased from 0.49 at load level 2 to 0.11 at load level 6.
• The decrease across load levels was statistically significant (P = 0.034).
• Data were analyzed using univariate analysis, correlation analysis, and multiple linear regression analysis.

Each one-level increase in exercise load was associated with an average decrease of 0.07 in the Weber fraction.

• Multiple linear regression analysis indicated a decrease of 0.07 per one-level increase in exercise load.
• 95% CI: −0.12 to −0.02, P = 0.009.
• This finding supports a nonlinear perceptual response to increasing exercise load.

Males had a lower Weber fraction than females during exercise load testing.

• Males had a Weber fraction that was 0.09 lower than females on average.
• 95% CI: −0.12 to −0.06, P < 0.001.
• Sex was identified as a significant predictor in the multiple linear regression model.

Differential perception showed an overall downward trend with increasing exercise load levels, but this trend was not statistically significant.

• The overall downward trend in differential (discriminatory) perception across load levels did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.156).
• Discrimination thresholds and Weber fractions were calculated for each load level based on self-perceived load staging and perceptual discrimination.
• This contrasts with the Weber fraction, which did show a statistically significant decrease across load levels.

The study used exercise load entropy measurement theory as the theoretical framework for classifying and assessing exercise load perception.

• The study investigated patterns of change in exercise load classification, perceptual difference awareness, and Weber fraction across different exercise load levels.
• Six incrementally increasing load levels were tested using a cycle ergometer.
• The aim was to provide theoretical support for personalized exercise load assessment.