Predictive validity and classification accuracy of ActiGraph energy expenditure equations and cut-points in young children

Authors

Xanne Janssen, University of WollongongFollow
Dylan P. Cliff, University of WollongongFollow
John J. Reilly, University Of Glasgow,University of StrathclydeFollow
Trina Hinkley, Deakin UniversityFollow
Rachel A. Jones, University of WollongongFollow
Marijka Batterham, University of WollongongFollow
Ulf Ekelund, Addenbrooke's Hospital
Soren Brage, Addenbrooke's Hospital
Anthony D. Okely, University of WollongongFollow

RIS ID

84754

Publication Details

Janssen, X., Cliff, D. P., Reilly, J. J., Hinkley, T., Jones, R. A., Batterham, M., Ekelund, U., Brage, S. & Okely, A. D. (2013). Predictive validity and classification accuracy of ActiGraph energy expenditure equations and cut-points in young children. PLoS One, 8 (11), 1-9.

Abstract

Objectives

Evaluate the predictive validity of ActiGraph energy expenditure equations and the classification accuracy of physical activity intensity cut-points in preschoolers.

Methods

Forty children aged 4–6 years (5.3±1.0 years) completed a ~150-min room calorimeter protocol involving age-appropriate sedentary, light and moderate-to vigorous-intensity physical activities. Children wore an ActiGraph GT3X on the right mid-axillary line of the hip. Energy expenditure measured by room calorimetry and physical activity intensity classified using direct observation were the criterion methods. Energy expenditure was predicted using Pate and Puyau equations. Physical activity intensity was classified using Evenson, Sirard, Van Cauwenberghe, Pate, Puyau, and Reilly, ActiGraph cut-points.

Results

The Pate equation significantly overestimated VO2 during sedentary behaviors, light physical activities and total VO2 (P

Conclusion

Available ActiGraph equations do not provide accurate estimates of energy expenditure across physical activity intensities in preschoolers. Cut-points of ≤25counts⋅15 s−1 and ≥420 counts⋅15 s−1 for classifying sedentary behaviors and moderate-to vigorous-intensity physical activities, respectively, are recommended.