Using accelerometers in youth physical activity studies: a review of methods.

ABSTRACT:

Background

In 2005, investigators convened by the National Cancer Institute recommended development of standardized protocols for accelerometer use and reporting decision rules in articles. A literature review was conducted to document accelerometer methods and decision rule reporting in youth physical activity articles from 2005-2010.

Methods

Nine electronic databases identified 273 articles that measured physical activity and/or sedentary behavior using the most-used brand of accelerometer (ActiGraph). Six key methods were summarized by age group (preschool, children, and adolescents) and trends over time were examined.

Results

Studies using accelerometers more than doubled from 2005-2010. Methods included 2 ActiGraph models, 6 epoch lengths, 6 nonwear definitions,

SUBMITTER: Cain KL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6331211 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature