Predicting activity energy expenditure using the Actical® activity monitor

This study developed algorithms for predicting activity energy expenditure (AEE) in children (n = 24) and adults (n = 24) from the Actical (R) activity monitor. Each participant performed 10 activities (supine resting, three sitting, three house cleaning, and three locomotion) while wearing monitors on the ankle, hip, and wrist; AEE was computed from oxygen consumption. Regression analysis, used. to create AEE prediction equations based on Actical (R) output, varied considerably for both children (R-2 = 45-75; p < .001) and adults (R-2 =. 14-85; p < .008). Most of the resulting algorithms accurately predicted accumulated AEE and time within light, moderate, and vigorous intensity categories (p > . 05). The Actical (R) monitor may be useful for predicting AEE and time variables at the ankle, hip, or wrist locations.