When to use RPE, when to ignore it

RPE (Rate of Perceived Exertion) is a 1 to 10 scale for how hard a set felt. 10 means nothing left, 8 means two reps in reserve, and so on. Rackd lets you log it on any set, but the math only uses it when the program asks for it. The rest of the time it is a note for you, not an input to the next session.

When the math reads it

Programs that run a top set plus back-off scheme are the ones that lean on RPE. The 5/3/1 top set is AMRAP or RPE-capped by design, so the reps and the perceived effort together tell the program whether your training max moves up, holds, or drops next cycle. If you log RPE on those sets, the progression rule weights it. If you skip it, the rule falls back to the program default, which is usually a fixed jump on a clean session and a hold on a messy one.

In practice that means RPE is required on top sets in 5/3/1 Strength and any custom program you set to top-plus-back-off. It is optional on every back-off set, on accessory work, and on any program that runs straight sets at fixed weights.

When you can ignore it

5x5 Strength, Push/Pull/Legs, the dumbbell and bodyweight programs, and anything else that progresses on completed sets and reps will not read your RPE. Log it if you want a record of how the day felt, leave it blank if you do not. The next session is built from the reps and the load you actually put up, not from the number you typed in.

Same goes for accessory lifts inside an RPE-driven program. The top set reads RPE. Your curls and your face pulls do not.

A useful habit

Even when the math ignores it, RPE on the heavy lift of the day gives you a clean signal in your history. Two months of 8s on top sets means progress is real. A run of 9s and 10s on the same weight means the cycle is stalling and a deload is closer than you think.

Log what helps you. Skip what does not. The math will keep the rest honest.