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Related Experiment Videos

Conducting accelerometer-based activity assessments in field-based research.

Stewart G Trost1, Kerry L McIver, Russell R Pate

  • 1Community Health Institute, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA. strost@ksu.edu

Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise
|November 19, 2005
PubMed
Summary

This review highlights key methods for accelerometer-based physical activity assessments in free-living individuals. Proper planning and compliance strategies are crucial for accurate data collection using accelerometers.

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Area of Science:

  • Physical Activity Epidemiology
  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Human Movement Science

Background:

  • Accelerometer-based physical activity monitoring is widely used in research.
  • Standardized methodologies are essential for reliable and valid data.
  • Free-living assessments present unique challenges compared to laboratory settings.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review critical methodological considerations for accelerometer-based physical activity assessments.
  • To provide evidence-based recommendations for optimizing data collection in free-living individuals.
  • To address issues of device selection, monitoring protocols, and compliance.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review of empirical scientific literature.
  • Analysis of data concerning accelerometer product selection, quantity, placement, epoch length, and monitoring duration.

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  • Evaluation of strategies for monitor distribution, collection, and enhancing participant compliance.

    • Main Results:

    • No single accelerometer model demonstrates superior validity or reliability; selection depends on practicality and comparability.
    • Optimal accelerometer placement is on the hip or lower back.
    • For adults, 3-5 days of monitoring are sufficient; for children/adolescents, 4-9 days may be needed.
    • Face-to-face distribution/collection is preferred, but mail services are viable alternatives.

    Conclusions:

    • Accelerometer-based physical activity assessments necessitate meticulous planning.
    • Implementing appropriate strategies is vital for maximizing participant compliance and data quality.
    • Further research may be needed to establish definitive monitoring protocols for specific populations.