Influence of Accelerometer Calibration Approach on Moderate–Vigorous Physical Activity Estimates for Adults

Purpose To compare estimates of moderate-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) duration derived from accelerometers calibrated only to walking and running activities to estimates from calibrations based on a broader range of lifestyle and ambulatory activities. Methods In a study of 932 older (50–74 yr) adults we compared MVPA estimates from accelerometer counts based on three ambulatory calibration methods (Freedson 1952 counts per minute; Sasaki 2690 counts per minute; activPAL 3+ METs) to estimates based on calibrations from lifestyle and ambulatory activities combined (Matthews 760 counts per minute; Crouter 3+ METs; Sojourn3x 3+ METs). We also examined data from up to 6 previous-day recalls describing the MVPA in this population. Results The MVPA duration values derived from ambulatory calibration methods were significantly lower than methods designed to capture a broader range of both lifestyle and ambulatory activities (P
Source: Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise - Category: Sports Medicine Tags: EPIDEMIOLOGY Source Type: research