Accelerometry for measuring physical activity: Recommendations on methods

Gabrys L., Thiel C., Tallner A., Wilms B., Müller C., Kahlert D., Jekauc D., Frick F., Schulz H., Sprengeler O., Hey S., Kobel S., Vogt L.

Abstract

Currently, there is no evidence for recommending a specific accelerometer model as model selection depends on the study question, target groups and study design. To obtain objective information on habitual physical activity behavior, a minimum wear time of 7 consecutive days with a minimum of 10 h/day including one weekend day is recommended. To avoid bias the selected epoch length should be as short as possible or raw data should be recorded. For adults, the cutpoint model of Freedson et al. (1998) for estimating different activity categories is well accepted. Methodological limitations include the recognition of activities with limited body acceleration, such as bicycling or weight training and the estimation of energy expenditure using only linear regression models.