Measurement of human daily physical activity

Obes Res. 2003 Jan;11(1):33-40. doi: 10.1038/oby.2003.7.

Abstract

Objectives: To validate a new device, Intelligent Device for Energy Expenditure and Activity (IDEEA), for the measurement of duration, frequency, and intensity of various types of human physical activity (PA).

Research methods and procedures: The ability of IDEEA to identify and quantify 32 types of PA, including the most common daily exercise and nonexercise PA, was tested in 76 subjects: Subjects included males (N = 33) and females (N = 43) ranging in age from 13 to 72 years with a mean body mass index (BMI) of 24.7 kg/m(2) (range: 18.4 to 41.0) [43 females: 13 to 72 years old and BMI 18.4 to approximately 41.0 kg/m(2) (mean = 24.7 kg/m(2)); 33 males: 15 to approximately 72 years old and BMI 21.0 to approximately 38.4 kg/m(2) (mean = 25.9 kg/m(2))]. Postures, limb movements, and jumping were tested using a timed protocol of specific activities. Walking and running were tested using a 60-meter track, on which subjects walked and ran at 6 self-selected speeds. Stair climbing and descending were tested by timing subjects who climbed and descended a flight of stairs at two different speeds.

Results: Correct identification rates averaged 98.9% for posture and limb movement type and 98.5% for gait type. Pooled correlation between predicted and actual speeds of walking and running was high (r = 0.986, p <or= 0.0001).

Discussion: IDEEA accurately measured duration, frequency, type, and intensity of a variety of daily PAs.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Body Mass Index
  • Equipment and Supplies
  • Exercise*
  • Extremities / physiology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Motor Activity*
  • Posture
  • Running
  • Walking