Measuring Physical Activity Flashcards
(21 cards)
Pedometers
Motion sensor device that measures walking or running
Advantages of pedometers
- Inexpensive
- Easy to use
- Few errors
Disadvantages of pedometers
- Does not provide intensity, frequency, and duration
- Misreading can occur
Pedometer placement
Waist, thigh, ankle, wrist, or pocket
Accelerometer
Detect and record acceleration from movement done during activities
Examples of accelerometers
- FitBit
- Apple watch
Accelerometer placement
- Wrist
- Ankle
Advantages of accelerometers
- Reliable
- Easy to use
- Distinguishes types of activities
- Measures the intensity
Disadvantages of accelerometers
- Sensitive to temperature
- Measures based upon which parts of the body is used during activity
FitBit
Track and promote physical activity (steps, stairs, heart rate, and calories burnt)
Advantages of FitBit
- Provides real-time data
- Measures other things such as heart rate, sleep rhythm, and blood pressure
Disadvantages of FitBit
- Expensive
- Inaccurate calories burned/HR
MET
Used to measure the amount of energy needed for a specific task
MET chart
Uses the body’s oxygen consumption rate as index of energy spent
MET value at rest
1 MET at rest
Amount of oxygen consumed while sitting at rest
3.5 mL of O2/kg/min
Advantages of MET
- Simple, practical, and easy
- Can give an approximation of oxygen being used
- Can help people understand what types of exercise will allow them to burn the most calories
Disadvantages of MET
- Do not take height, weight, age, or fitness level into account
- Need extra calculation
Overall: Pedometers and Accelerometers
- Track basic activities such as walking and running
- Have many limitations and can be inaccurate for other activities
Overall: FitBit
Can be considered a pedometer with accelerometer and other functions
Overall: MET chart
Used to determine if the activity being done is the appropriate intensity and safe
