Objective Measures
Rely on information presented by another person through direct observation, or from a device like a pedometer or accelerometer. Objective measures remove the disadvantages associated with subjective measures but are much more expensive. These methods are predominantly used for measurement in individuals.
Objective methods of assessing physical activity or sedentary behaviour
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Heart Rate Telemeters
Provides data on a participant’s heart-rate response to physical activity. Heart rate is typically used to estimate physical activity as energy expenditure (oxygen uptake), based on the assumption of a linear association between heart rate & energy expenditure. Heart rate measured during daily activities is thus used to establish energy expenditure.
Provides data on a participant’s heart-rate response to physical activity. Heart rate is typically used to estimate physical activity as energy expenditure (oxygen uptake), based on the assumption of a linear association between heart rate & energy expenditure. Heart rate measured during daily activities is thus used to establish energy expenditure.
Pedometers
Were designed to count steps & thus provide a potentially useful measure of distance walked or run. The participant wears the device, which records the number of steps taken & estimates the distance walked if the stride length is known. Pedometry can also be used to estimate physical activity energy expenditure by estimating the energy cost associated with walking. A total of approximately 10,000 steps per day is considered equivalent to meeting the National Physical Activity Guidelines. 10,000 Steps - Sign up for the challenge |
Accelerometers
Are an electronic device used to assess the acceleration of the body in certain directions. It records movement counts. An accelerometer device is able to:
Direct Observation
Involves watching people’s behaviours within specific settings (such as parks, schools or Physical Education classes) & recording activities and events of interest. Direct observation is most commonly used to assess physical activity among children but can also be used with adults. Commonly-used instruments include:
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