Improving energy expenditure estimation by using a triaxial accelerometer

In our study of 125 subjects (53 men and 72 women) for two 24-h periods, we validated energy expenditure (EE), estimated by a triaxial accelerometer (Tritrac-R3D), by using a whole-room indirect calorimeter under close-to-normal living conditions. The estimated EE was correlated with the measured total EE for the 2 days (r = 0.925 and r = 0.855; P < 0.001) and in minute-by-minute EE (P < 0.01). Resting EE formulated by the Tritrac was found to be similar to the measured values [standard errors of estimation (SEE) = 0.112 W/kg; P = 0.822]. The Tritrac significantly underestimated total EE, EE for physical activities, EE of sedentary and light-intensity activities, and EE for exercise such as stepping (all P < 0.001). We developed a linear and a nonlinear model to predict EE by using the acceleration components from the Tritrac. Predicted EE was significantly improved with both models in estimating total EE, total EE for physical activities, EE in low-intensity activities, minute-by-minute averaged relative difference, and minute-by-minute SEE (all P < 0.05). Furthermore, with our generalized models and by using subjects' physical characteristics and body acceleration, EE can be estimated with higher accuracy (averaged SEE = 0.418 W/kg) than with the Tritrac model.