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Advanced Fitness Assessment and Exercise Prescription
by Ann L. Gibson, Dale R. Wagner and Vivian H. Heyward
560 Pages
Advanced Fitness Assessment and Exercise Prescription, Eighth Edition With Online Video, provides a comprehensive approach to physical fitness appraisal and customized exercise prescription. The text synthesizes research and practice with concepts and theories from exercise physiology, kinesiology, measurement, psychology, and nutrition to clearly convey how assessments from physical fitness testing inform the design of individualized exercise programs.
The eighth edition of Advanced Fitness Assessment and Exercise Prescription reflects the latest exercise testing and prescription guidelines from the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) as well as physical activity recommendations from the U.S. government and American Heart Association. It also takes into account recent ACSM guidelines for medical exam and exercise testing requirements to consider before beginning exercise programs. Additional updates to the eighth edition include the following:
• Significant expansion of the online video clips, which now demonstrate nearly 75 fitness tests, including functional movement assessment and push-up and pull-up testing
• New protocols and assessments for each of the five fitness components, from self-paced treadmill protocols for cardiorespiratory fitness to the Balance Error Scoring System (BESS) for assessment of balance
• Updated blood pressure standards for hypertension
• Expanded information on the use of technology to monitor physical activity, including wearable activity trackers and mobile apps
• Updated information on the use of workspace design to promote physical activity and exercise
• Extensive updates to the supporting research for the assessment and testing protocols
Advanced Fitness Assessment and Exercise Prescription, Eighth Edition, is structured around five physical fitness components: cardiorespiratory endurance, muscular fitness (strength, endurance, and power), body composition, flexibility, and balance. The text begins with an overview of physical activity, health, and chronic disease, including a discussion of preliminary health screening and risk classification. It then leads into field and laboratory assessment and testing protocols, followed by prescription guidelines for designing exercise programs to improve each fitness component. Readers will find the latest information on maximal and submaximal graded exercise testing in healthy populations, as well as muscular fitness testing protocols and norms for children and adults.
Each chapter begins with key questions to help readers focus on essential information. Sidebars lend practical insight to the content. Key points, review questions, and key terms reinforce concepts and summarize chapter content for better retention. An instructor guide, test package, chapter quizzes, and presentation package plus image bank provide tools for instructors to use for lecture preparation, creative content delivery, and class assessment. The online video clips, newly revised for the eighth edition, further aid student comprehension of the material and provide instructors an additional tool for classroom demonstration.
Advanced Fitness Assessment and Exercise Prescription, Eighth Edition, truly bridges the gap between research and practice. Its unique scope, depth of coverage, and clearly outlined approach make it an invaluable resource for students and exercise science professionals who want to increase their knowledge, skill, and competence in assessing clients' fitness and designing individualized exercise programs.
Earn continuing education credits/units! A continuing education course and exam that uses this book is also available. It may be purchased separately or as part of a package that includes all the course materials and exam.
Chapter 1. Physical Activity, Health, and Chronic Disease
Physical Activity, Health, and Disease: An Overview
Cardiovascular Disease
Hypertension
Hypercholesterolemia and Dyslipidemia
Tobacco
Diabetes Mellitus
Obesity and Overweight
Metabolic Syndrome
Cancer
Musculoskeletal Diseases and Disorders
Aging
Cognitive Performance
Exercise as Medicine
Review Material
Chapter 2. Preliminary Health Screening and Risk Classification
Preliminary Health Evaluation
Testing Procedures for Blood Pressure, Heart Rate, and Electrocardiogram
Review Material
Chapter 3. Principles of Assessment, Prescription, and Exercise Program Adherence
Physical Fitness Testing
Basic Principles for Exercise Program Design
Exercise Program Adherence
Using Technology to Promote Physical Activity
Review Material
Chapter 4. Assessing Cardiorespiratory Fitness
Definition of Terms
Graded Exercise Testing: Guidelines and Procedures
Maximal Exercise Test Protocols
Submaximal Exercise Test Protocols
Field Tests for Assessing Aerobic Fitness
Exercise Testing for Children and Older Adults
Review Material
Chapter 5. Designing Cardiorespiratory Exercise Programs
The Exercise Prescription
Aerobic Training Methods and Modes
Personalized Exercise Programs
Review Material
Chapter 6. Assessing Muscular Fitness
Definition of Terms
Strength and Muscular Endurance Assessment
Muscular Power Assessment
Sources of Measurement Error in Muscular Fitness Testing
Additional Considerations for Muscular Fitness Testing
Muscular Fitness Testing of Older Adults
Muscular Fitness Testing of Children
Review Material
Chapter 7. Designing Resistance Training Programs
Types of Resistance Training
Developing Resistance Training Programs
Common Questions About Resistance Training
Effects of Resistance Training Programs
Muscular Soreness
Review Material
Chapter 8. Assessing Body Composition
Classification and Uses of Body Composition Measures
Body Composition Models
Reference Methods for Assessing Body Composition
Field Methods for Assessing Body Composition
Review Material
Chapter 9. Designing Weight Management and Body Composition Programs
Obesity, Overweight, and Underweight: Definitions and Trends
Obesity: Types and Causes
Weight Management Principles and Practices
Designing Weight Management Programs: Preliminary Steps
Designing Weight Loss Programs
Designing Weight Gain Programs
Designing Programs to Improve Body Composition
Review Material
Chapter 10. Assessing Flexibility
Basics of Flexibility
Assessment of Flexibility
Flexibility Testing of Older Adults
Review Material
Chapter 11. Designing Programs for Flexibility and Low Back Care
Training Principles
Stretching Methods
Designing Flexibility Programs: Exercise Prescription
Designing Low Back Care Exercise Programs
Review Material
Chapter 12. Assessing Balance and Designing Balance Programs
Definitions and Nature of Balance
Factors Affecting Balance and Risk of Falling
Assessment of Balance
Designing Balance Training Programs
Review Material
Appendix A. Health and Fitness Appraisal
A.1 Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire for Everyone (Par-Q+)
A.2 Medical History Questionnaire
A.3 Risk Factors, Signs, and Symptoms of Disease
A.4 Electronic Physical Activity Readiness Medical Examination (ePARmed-X+)
A.5 Lifestyle Evaluation
A.6 Fantastic Lifestyle Checklist
A.7 Informed Consent
A.8 Websites for Selected Professional Organizations and Institutes
Appendix B. Cardiorespiratory Assessments
B.1 Summary of Graded Exercise Test and Cardiorespiratory Field Test Protocols
B.2 Rockport Fitness Charts
B.3 Step Test Protocols
B.4 OMNI Rating of Perceived Exertion Scales
B.5 Analysis of Sample Case Study in Chapter 5
Appendix C. Muscular Fitness Exercise and Norms
C.1 Standardized Testing Protocols for Digital Handheld Dynamometry
C.2 1-RM Squat and Bench Press Norms for Adults
C.3 Isometric Exercises
C.4 Dynamic Resistance Training Exercises
Appendix D. Body Composition Assessments
D.1 Prediction Equations for Residual Volume
D.2 Standardized Sites for Skinfold Measurements
D.3 Skinfold Sites for Jackson’s Generalized Skinfold Equations
D.4 Standardized Sites for Circumference Measurements
D.5 Standardized Sites for Bony Breadth Measurements
D.6 Ashwell Body Shape Chart
Appendix E. Energy Intake and Expenditure
E.1 Food Record and RDA Profile
E.2 Physical Activity Log
E.3 Gross Energy Expenditure for Conditioning Exercises, Sports, and Recreational Activities
Appendix F. Flexibility and Low Back Care Exercises
F.1 Selected Flexibility Exercises
F.2 Exercise Dos and Don’ts
F.3 Exercises for Low Back Care
Ann L. Gibson, PhD, FACSM, is an associate professor and researcher in exercise science at the University of New Mexico, with research interests in body composition and physiological responses to exercise. She developed the ancillary materials for the sixth edition of Advanced Fitness Assessment and Exercise Prescription in addition to coauthoring the seventh edition.
Gibson has presented internationally in the area of obesity research and has published original research in journals such as Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, International Journal of Sport Nutrition & Exercise Metabolism, Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport, and Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. She is a member of the American College of Sports Medicine, National Strength and Conditioning Association, and the Clinical Exercise Physiology Association.
Gibson resides in New Mexico, where she enjoys spending time outdoors hiking, biking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and gardening.
Dale R. Wagner, PhD, EPC, ACSM-CEP, CSCS, is a professor of exercise physiology at Utah State University (USU). His research interests include body composition assessment and exercise physiology at high altitude. He has been an active researcher for 20 years and has authored over 60 peer-reviewed research publications. He is a coauthor of Applied Body Composition Assessment (Human Kinetics, 2004) with Vivian Heyward.
Wagner is a past president of the Southwest Chapter of the American College of Sports Medicine (SWACSM) and of the American Society of Exercise Physiologists. He is a research council member of the Wilderness Medical Society and a member of the National Strength and Conditioning Association, the International Society for Mountain Medicine, and the International Society for Body Composition Research.
In his spare time, Wagner enjoys mountaineering, cycling (both road and mountain), and international travel.
Vivian H. Heyward, PhD, is a regents’ professor emerita at the University of New Mexico, where she taught physical fitness assessment and exercise prescription courses for 26 years. In addition to the previous editions of this book, she has authored two editions of Applied Body Composition Assessment (Human Kinetics, 1996, 2004) as well as numerous articles in research and professional journals dealing with various aspects of physical fitness assessment and exercise prescription. Heyward has received many professional awards, including the SWACSM Recognition Award for distinguished professional achievement and the Distinguished Alumni Award from the University of Illinois and the State University of New York at Cortland.
In her free time, she enjoys hiking, nature photography, golfing, and snowshoeing. Heyward resides in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Activity trackers: are they accurate for estimating energy expenditure?
Being able to track energy (caloric) expenditure is of great importance for those pursuing weight loss and weight maintenance goals. But the technology to track energy expenditure (EE) with a high degree of accuracy is still lacking.
Being able to track energy (caloric) expenditure is of great importance for those pursuing weight loss and weight maintenance goals. But the technology to track energy expenditure (EE) with a high degree of accuracy is still lacking. Research results are mixed on the ability of activity trackers to accurately compute TEE in controlled laboratory settings, during semi-structured activities, and in free-living environments. Although the correlation between activity tracking accelerometers is reported to be moderate to strong, significant underestimations of the reference values are common. Accelerometers, categorized as research-grade (ActiGraph GT3X+, BodyMedia Core, Body Media SenseWear), underestimate energy expenditure in comparison to the gold standard, indirect calorimetry (Bai et al. 2016; Ferguson et al. 2015; Imboden et al. 2017; Kim and Welk 2015).
Consumer-targeted devices worn during a variety of activities produce large differences and variable estimates of EE and tend to underestimate reference values of EE (Bai et al 2016; Ferguson et al. 2015; Imboden et al. 2017; Kim and Welk 2015; Price et al. 2017; Sasaki et al. 2015). Typically, the proprietary algorithms developed by the manufacturers account for differences between devices. Although some accelerometers perform better during moderate- to fast-paced activities (ActiGraph GT3X+, BodyMedia SenseWear, Core Armband), others perform better during slow-paced activities (activPAL). Lyden and associates (2017) reported that the activPAL accurately categorizes sedentary behaviors as well as light-intensity and MVPA exercise compared with direct observation. Triaxial and multisensory devices tend to provide more accurate estimates of TEE than uniaxial devices (Van Remoortel et al. 2012).
Blood pressure-related smartphone apps
There are no fewer than 100 hypertension-related apps available for download (Kumar et al. 2015). Most of them allow users to track their BP, BMI, and body weight by entering the data into their smartphones.
There are no fewer than 100 hypertension-related apps available for download (Kumar et al. 2015). Most of them allow users to track their BP, BMI, and body weight by entering the data into their smartphones. Some of these apps provide access to information about hypertension, medication adherence, and diet. Reports indicate that these tracking and educational apps include design features that make them beneficial for monitoring BP and factors related to it (e.g., body weight, stress level).
Some Android apps assess blood pressure and heart rate by using the phone's camera and microphone. These apps may provide opportunities to track blood pressure for general knowledge. It is important to understand that none of them have undergone the rigorous testing required of traditional blood pressure devices. The apps have also not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Therefore, health care providers should be cautious with information from these apps as provided to them by their clients.
Using technology to increase physical activity at work
Active workstations (e.g., treadmill desks or pedal desks) and adjustable-height work surfaces that allow employees to stand (sit-stand desks) are becoming more commonplace.
Active workstations (e.g., treadmill desks or pedal desks) and adjustable-height work surfaces that allow employees to stand (sit-stand desks) are becoming more commonplace. They provide a means to reduce prolonged periods of sitting. Some employees have their own active workstations, while others have access to one located in a common area. A recent review of studies about active workstations (Cao et al. 2016) indicates that the calories burned may increase two- to fourfold for employees who change from sitting in a chair (~70-90 kcal·h−1) to active workstations. Additionally, daily step counts and physical activity (min/day) increase dramatically for those using active workstations during the workday. Crandall and colleagues (2016) found that using sit-stand workstations reduces sitting time by approximately 85 min/day. They also reported that employees using a shared treadmill desk accumulate slightly fewer than 9,000 steps·day−1 while at work. Ongoing longitudinal research in this area may identify long-term effects of using active workstations on employee health. Currently, these effects are not well documented.
Activity trackers: are they accurate for estimating energy expenditure?
Being able to track energy (caloric) expenditure is of great importance for those pursuing weight loss and weight maintenance goals. But the technology to track energy expenditure (EE) with a high degree of accuracy is still lacking.
Being able to track energy (caloric) expenditure is of great importance for those pursuing weight loss and weight maintenance goals. But the technology to track energy expenditure (EE) with a high degree of accuracy is still lacking. Research results are mixed on the ability of activity trackers to accurately compute TEE in controlled laboratory settings, during semi-structured activities, and in free-living environments. Although the correlation between activity tracking accelerometers is reported to be moderate to strong, significant underestimations of the reference values are common. Accelerometers, categorized as research-grade (ActiGraph GT3X+, BodyMedia Core, Body Media SenseWear), underestimate energy expenditure in comparison to the gold standard, indirect calorimetry (Bai et al. 2016; Ferguson et al. 2015; Imboden et al. 2017; Kim and Welk 2015).
Consumer-targeted devices worn during a variety of activities produce large differences and variable estimates of EE and tend to underestimate reference values of EE (Bai et al 2016; Ferguson et al. 2015; Imboden et al. 2017; Kim and Welk 2015; Price et al. 2017; Sasaki et al. 2015). Typically, the proprietary algorithms developed by the manufacturers account for differences between devices. Although some accelerometers perform better during moderate- to fast-paced activities (ActiGraph GT3X+, BodyMedia SenseWear, Core Armband), others perform better during slow-paced activities (activPAL). Lyden and associates (2017) reported that the activPAL accurately categorizes sedentary behaviors as well as light-intensity and MVPA exercise compared with direct observation. Triaxial and multisensory devices tend to provide more accurate estimates of TEE than uniaxial devices (Van Remoortel et al. 2012).
Blood pressure-related smartphone apps
There are no fewer than 100 hypertension-related apps available for download (Kumar et al. 2015). Most of them allow users to track their BP, BMI, and body weight by entering the data into their smartphones.
There are no fewer than 100 hypertension-related apps available for download (Kumar et al. 2015). Most of them allow users to track their BP, BMI, and body weight by entering the data into their smartphones. Some of these apps provide access to information about hypertension, medication adherence, and diet. Reports indicate that these tracking and educational apps include design features that make them beneficial for monitoring BP and factors related to it (e.g., body weight, stress level).
Some Android apps assess blood pressure and heart rate by using the phone's camera and microphone. These apps may provide opportunities to track blood pressure for general knowledge. It is important to understand that none of them have undergone the rigorous testing required of traditional blood pressure devices. The apps have also not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Therefore, health care providers should be cautious with information from these apps as provided to them by their clients.
Using technology to increase physical activity at work
Active workstations (e.g., treadmill desks or pedal desks) and adjustable-height work surfaces that allow employees to stand (sit-stand desks) are becoming more commonplace.
Active workstations (e.g., treadmill desks or pedal desks) and adjustable-height work surfaces that allow employees to stand (sit-stand desks) are becoming more commonplace. They provide a means to reduce prolonged periods of sitting. Some employees have their own active workstations, while others have access to one located in a common area. A recent review of studies about active workstations (Cao et al. 2016) indicates that the calories burned may increase two- to fourfold for employees who change from sitting in a chair (~70-90 kcal·h−1) to active workstations. Additionally, daily step counts and physical activity (min/day) increase dramatically for those using active workstations during the workday. Crandall and colleagues (2016) found that using sit-stand workstations reduces sitting time by approximately 85 min/day. They also reported that employees using a shared treadmill desk accumulate slightly fewer than 9,000 steps·day−1 while at work. Ongoing longitudinal research in this area may identify long-term effects of using active workstations on employee health. Currently, these effects are not well documented.
Activity trackers: are they accurate for estimating energy expenditure?
Being able to track energy (caloric) expenditure is of great importance for those pursuing weight loss and weight maintenance goals. But the technology to track energy expenditure (EE) with a high degree of accuracy is still lacking.
Being able to track energy (caloric) expenditure is of great importance for those pursuing weight loss and weight maintenance goals. But the technology to track energy expenditure (EE) with a high degree of accuracy is still lacking. Research results are mixed on the ability of activity trackers to accurately compute TEE in controlled laboratory settings, during semi-structured activities, and in free-living environments. Although the correlation between activity tracking accelerometers is reported to be moderate to strong, significant underestimations of the reference values are common. Accelerometers, categorized as research-grade (ActiGraph GT3X+, BodyMedia Core, Body Media SenseWear), underestimate energy expenditure in comparison to the gold standard, indirect calorimetry (Bai et al. 2016; Ferguson et al. 2015; Imboden et al. 2017; Kim and Welk 2015).
Consumer-targeted devices worn during a variety of activities produce large differences and variable estimates of EE and tend to underestimate reference values of EE (Bai et al 2016; Ferguson et al. 2015; Imboden et al. 2017; Kim and Welk 2015; Price et al. 2017; Sasaki et al. 2015). Typically, the proprietary algorithms developed by the manufacturers account for differences between devices. Although some accelerometers perform better during moderate- to fast-paced activities (ActiGraph GT3X+, BodyMedia SenseWear, Core Armband), others perform better during slow-paced activities (activPAL). Lyden and associates (2017) reported that the activPAL accurately categorizes sedentary behaviors as well as light-intensity and MVPA exercise compared with direct observation. Triaxial and multisensory devices tend to provide more accurate estimates of TEE than uniaxial devices (Van Remoortel et al. 2012).
Blood pressure-related smartphone apps
There are no fewer than 100 hypertension-related apps available for download (Kumar et al. 2015). Most of them allow users to track their BP, BMI, and body weight by entering the data into their smartphones.
There are no fewer than 100 hypertension-related apps available for download (Kumar et al. 2015). Most of them allow users to track their BP, BMI, and body weight by entering the data into their smartphones. Some of these apps provide access to information about hypertension, medication adherence, and diet. Reports indicate that these tracking and educational apps include design features that make them beneficial for monitoring BP and factors related to it (e.g., body weight, stress level).
Some Android apps assess blood pressure and heart rate by using the phone's camera and microphone. These apps may provide opportunities to track blood pressure for general knowledge. It is important to understand that none of them have undergone the rigorous testing required of traditional blood pressure devices. The apps have also not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Therefore, health care providers should be cautious with information from these apps as provided to them by their clients.
Using technology to increase physical activity at work
Active workstations (e.g., treadmill desks or pedal desks) and adjustable-height work surfaces that allow employees to stand (sit-stand desks) are becoming more commonplace.
Active workstations (e.g., treadmill desks or pedal desks) and adjustable-height work surfaces that allow employees to stand (sit-stand desks) are becoming more commonplace. They provide a means to reduce prolonged periods of sitting. Some employees have their own active workstations, while others have access to one located in a common area. A recent review of studies about active workstations (Cao et al. 2016) indicates that the calories burned may increase two- to fourfold for employees who change from sitting in a chair (~70-90 kcal·h−1) to active workstations. Additionally, daily step counts and physical activity (min/day) increase dramatically for those using active workstations during the workday. Crandall and colleagues (2016) found that using sit-stand workstations reduces sitting time by approximately 85 min/day. They also reported that employees using a shared treadmill desk accumulate slightly fewer than 9,000 steps·day−1 while at work. Ongoing longitudinal research in this area may identify long-term effects of using active workstations on employee health. Currently, these effects are not well documented.
Activity trackers: are they accurate for estimating energy expenditure?
Being able to track energy (caloric) expenditure is of great importance for those pursuing weight loss and weight maintenance goals. But the technology to track energy expenditure (EE) with a high degree of accuracy is still lacking.
Being able to track energy (caloric) expenditure is of great importance for those pursuing weight loss and weight maintenance goals. But the technology to track energy expenditure (EE) with a high degree of accuracy is still lacking. Research results are mixed on the ability of activity trackers to accurately compute TEE in controlled laboratory settings, during semi-structured activities, and in free-living environments. Although the correlation between activity tracking accelerometers is reported to be moderate to strong, significant underestimations of the reference values are common. Accelerometers, categorized as research-grade (ActiGraph GT3X+, BodyMedia Core, Body Media SenseWear), underestimate energy expenditure in comparison to the gold standard, indirect calorimetry (Bai et al. 2016; Ferguson et al. 2015; Imboden et al. 2017; Kim and Welk 2015).
Consumer-targeted devices worn during a variety of activities produce large differences and variable estimates of EE and tend to underestimate reference values of EE (Bai et al 2016; Ferguson et al. 2015; Imboden et al. 2017; Kim and Welk 2015; Price et al. 2017; Sasaki et al. 2015). Typically, the proprietary algorithms developed by the manufacturers account for differences between devices. Although some accelerometers perform better during moderate- to fast-paced activities (ActiGraph GT3X+, BodyMedia SenseWear, Core Armband), others perform better during slow-paced activities (activPAL). Lyden and associates (2017) reported that the activPAL accurately categorizes sedentary behaviors as well as light-intensity and MVPA exercise compared with direct observation. Triaxial and multisensory devices tend to provide more accurate estimates of TEE than uniaxial devices (Van Remoortel et al. 2012).
Blood pressure-related smartphone apps
There are no fewer than 100 hypertension-related apps available for download (Kumar et al. 2015). Most of them allow users to track their BP, BMI, and body weight by entering the data into their smartphones.
There are no fewer than 100 hypertension-related apps available for download (Kumar et al. 2015). Most of them allow users to track their BP, BMI, and body weight by entering the data into their smartphones. Some of these apps provide access to information about hypertension, medication adherence, and diet. Reports indicate that these tracking and educational apps include design features that make them beneficial for monitoring BP and factors related to it (e.g., body weight, stress level).
Some Android apps assess blood pressure and heart rate by using the phone's camera and microphone. These apps may provide opportunities to track blood pressure for general knowledge. It is important to understand that none of them have undergone the rigorous testing required of traditional blood pressure devices. The apps have also not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Therefore, health care providers should be cautious with information from these apps as provided to them by their clients.
Using technology to increase physical activity at work
Active workstations (e.g., treadmill desks or pedal desks) and adjustable-height work surfaces that allow employees to stand (sit-stand desks) are becoming more commonplace.
Active workstations (e.g., treadmill desks or pedal desks) and adjustable-height work surfaces that allow employees to stand (sit-stand desks) are becoming more commonplace. They provide a means to reduce prolonged periods of sitting. Some employees have their own active workstations, while others have access to one located in a common area. A recent review of studies about active workstations (Cao et al. 2016) indicates that the calories burned may increase two- to fourfold for employees who change from sitting in a chair (~70-90 kcal·h−1) to active workstations. Additionally, daily step counts and physical activity (min/day) increase dramatically for those using active workstations during the workday. Crandall and colleagues (2016) found that using sit-stand workstations reduces sitting time by approximately 85 min/day. They also reported that employees using a shared treadmill desk accumulate slightly fewer than 9,000 steps·day−1 while at work. Ongoing longitudinal research in this area may identify long-term effects of using active workstations on employee health. Currently, these effects are not well documented.
Activity trackers: are they accurate for estimating energy expenditure?
Being able to track energy (caloric) expenditure is of great importance for those pursuing weight loss and weight maintenance goals. But the technology to track energy expenditure (EE) with a high degree of accuracy is still lacking.
Being able to track energy (caloric) expenditure is of great importance for those pursuing weight loss and weight maintenance goals. But the technology to track energy expenditure (EE) with a high degree of accuracy is still lacking. Research results are mixed on the ability of activity trackers to accurately compute TEE in controlled laboratory settings, during semi-structured activities, and in free-living environments. Although the correlation between activity tracking accelerometers is reported to be moderate to strong, significant underestimations of the reference values are common. Accelerometers, categorized as research-grade (ActiGraph GT3X+, BodyMedia Core, Body Media SenseWear), underestimate energy expenditure in comparison to the gold standard, indirect calorimetry (Bai et al. 2016; Ferguson et al. 2015; Imboden et al. 2017; Kim and Welk 2015).
Consumer-targeted devices worn during a variety of activities produce large differences and variable estimates of EE and tend to underestimate reference values of EE (Bai et al 2016; Ferguson et al. 2015; Imboden et al. 2017; Kim and Welk 2015; Price et al. 2017; Sasaki et al. 2015). Typically, the proprietary algorithms developed by the manufacturers account for differences between devices. Although some accelerometers perform better during moderate- to fast-paced activities (ActiGraph GT3X+, BodyMedia SenseWear, Core Armband), others perform better during slow-paced activities (activPAL). Lyden and associates (2017) reported that the activPAL accurately categorizes sedentary behaviors as well as light-intensity and MVPA exercise compared with direct observation. Triaxial and multisensory devices tend to provide more accurate estimates of TEE than uniaxial devices (Van Remoortel et al. 2012).
Blood pressure-related smartphone apps
There are no fewer than 100 hypertension-related apps available for download (Kumar et al. 2015). Most of them allow users to track their BP, BMI, and body weight by entering the data into their smartphones.
There are no fewer than 100 hypertension-related apps available for download (Kumar et al. 2015). Most of them allow users to track their BP, BMI, and body weight by entering the data into their smartphones. Some of these apps provide access to information about hypertension, medication adherence, and diet. Reports indicate that these tracking and educational apps include design features that make them beneficial for monitoring BP and factors related to it (e.g., body weight, stress level).
Some Android apps assess blood pressure and heart rate by using the phone's camera and microphone. These apps may provide opportunities to track blood pressure for general knowledge. It is important to understand that none of them have undergone the rigorous testing required of traditional blood pressure devices. The apps have also not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Therefore, health care providers should be cautious with information from these apps as provided to them by their clients.
Using technology to increase physical activity at work
Active workstations (e.g., treadmill desks or pedal desks) and adjustable-height work surfaces that allow employees to stand (sit-stand desks) are becoming more commonplace.
Active workstations (e.g., treadmill desks or pedal desks) and adjustable-height work surfaces that allow employees to stand (sit-stand desks) are becoming more commonplace. They provide a means to reduce prolonged periods of sitting. Some employees have their own active workstations, while others have access to one located in a common area. A recent review of studies about active workstations (Cao et al. 2016) indicates that the calories burned may increase two- to fourfold for employees who change from sitting in a chair (~70-90 kcal·h−1) to active workstations. Additionally, daily step counts and physical activity (min/day) increase dramatically for those using active workstations during the workday. Crandall and colleagues (2016) found that using sit-stand workstations reduces sitting time by approximately 85 min/day. They also reported that employees using a shared treadmill desk accumulate slightly fewer than 9,000 steps·day−1 while at work. Ongoing longitudinal research in this area may identify long-term effects of using active workstations on employee health. Currently, these effects are not well documented.
Activity trackers: are they accurate for estimating energy expenditure?
Being able to track energy (caloric) expenditure is of great importance for those pursuing weight loss and weight maintenance goals. But the technology to track energy expenditure (EE) with a high degree of accuracy is still lacking.
Being able to track energy (caloric) expenditure is of great importance for those pursuing weight loss and weight maintenance goals. But the technology to track energy expenditure (EE) with a high degree of accuracy is still lacking. Research results are mixed on the ability of activity trackers to accurately compute TEE in controlled laboratory settings, during semi-structured activities, and in free-living environments. Although the correlation between activity tracking accelerometers is reported to be moderate to strong, significant underestimations of the reference values are common. Accelerometers, categorized as research-grade (ActiGraph GT3X+, BodyMedia Core, Body Media SenseWear), underestimate energy expenditure in comparison to the gold standard, indirect calorimetry (Bai et al. 2016; Ferguson et al. 2015; Imboden et al. 2017; Kim and Welk 2015).
Consumer-targeted devices worn during a variety of activities produce large differences and variable estimates of EE and tend to underestimate reference values of EE (Bai et al 2016; Ferguson et al. 2015; Imboden et al. 2017; Kim and Welk 2015; Price et al. 2017; Sasaki et al. 2015). Typically, the proprietary algorithms developed by the manufacturers account for differences between devices. Although some accelerometers perform better during moderate- to fast-paced activities (ActiGraph GT3X+, BodyMedia SenseWear, Core Armband), others perform better during slow-paced activities (activPAL). Lyden and associates (2017) reported that the activPAL accurately categorizes sedentary behaviors as well as light-intensity and MVPA exercise compared with direct observation. Triaxial and multisensory devices tend to provide more accurate estimates of TEE than uniaxial devices (Van Remoortel et al. 2012).
Blood pressure-related smartphone apps
There are no fewer than 100 hypertension-related apps available for download (Kumar et al. 2015). Most of them allow users to track their BP, BMI, and body weight by entering the data into their smartphones.
There are no fewer than 100 hypertension-related apps available for download (Kumar et al. 2015). Most of them allow users to track their BP, BMI, and body weight by entering the data into their smartphones. Some of these apps provide access to information about hypertension, medication adherence, and diet. Reports indicate that these tracking and educational apps include design features that make them beneficial for monitoring BP and factors related to it (e.g., body weight, stress level).
Some Android apps assess blood pressure and heart rate by using the phone's camera and microphone. These apps may provide opportunities to track blood pressure for general knowledge. It is important to understand that none of them have undergone the rigorous testing required of traditional blood pressure devices. The apps have also not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Therefore, health care providers should be cautious with information from these apps as provided to them by their clients.
Using technology to increase physical activity at work
Active workstations (e.g., treadmill desks or pedal desks) and adjustable-height work surfaces that allow employees to stand (sit-stand desks) are becoming more commonplace.
Active workstations (e.g., treadmill desks or pedal desks) and adjustable-height work surfaces that allow employees to stand (sit-stand desks) are becoming more commonplace. They provide a means to reduce prolonged periods of sitting. Some employees have their own active workstations, while others have access to one located in a common area. A recent review of studies about active workstations (Cao et al. 2016) indicates that the calories burned may increase two- to fourfold for employees who change from sitting in a chair (~70-90 kcal·h−1) to active workstations. Additionally, daily step counts and physical activity (min/day) increase dramatically for those using active workstations during the workday. Crandall and colleagues (2016) found that using sit-stand workstations reduces sitting time by approximately 85 min/day. They also reported that employees using a shared treadmill desk accumulate slightly fewer than 9,000 steps·day−1 while at work. Ongoing longitudinal research in this area may identify long-term effects of using active workstations on employee health. Currently, these effects are not well documented.
Activity trackers: are they accurate for estimating energy expenditure?
Being able to track energy (caloric) expenditure is of great importance for those pursuing weight loss and weight maintenance goals. But the technology to track energy expenditure (EE) with a high degree of accuracy is still lacking.
Being able to track energy (caloric) expenditure is of great importance for those pursuing weight loss and weight maintenance goals. But the technology to track energy expenditure (EE) with a high degree of accuracy is still lacking. Research results are mixed on the ability of activity trackers to accurately compute TEE in controlled laboratory settings, during semi-structured activities, and in free-living environments. Although the correlation between activity tracking accelerometers is reported to be moderate to strong, significant underestimations of the reference values are common. Accelerometers, categorized as research-grade (ActiGraph GT3X+, BodyMedia Core, Body Media SenseWear), underestimate energy expenditure in comparison to the gold standard, indirect calorimetry (Bai et al. 2016; Ferguson et al. 2015; Imboden et al. 2017; Kim and Welk 2015).
Consumer-targeted devices worn during a variety of activities produce large differences and variable estimates of EE and tend to underestimate reference values of EE (Bai et al 2016; Ferguson et al. 2015; Imboden et al. 2017; Kim and Welk 2015; Price et al. 2017; Sasaki et al. 2015). Typically, the proprietary algorithms developed by the manufacturers account for differences between devices. Although some accelerometers perform better during moderate- to fast-paced activities (ActiGraph GT3X+, BodyMedia SenseWear, Core Armband), others perform better during slow-paced activities (activPAL). Lyden and associates (2017) reported that the activPAL accurately categorizes sedentary behaviors as well as light-intensity and MVPA exercise compared with direct observation. Triaxial and multisensory devices tend to provide more accurate estimates of TEE than uniaxial devices (Van Remoortel et al. 2012).
Blood pressure-related smartphone apps
There are no fewer than 100 hypertension-related apps available for download (Kumar et al. 2015). Most of them allow users to track their BP, BMI, and body weight by entering the data into their smartphones.
There are no fewer than 100 hypertension-related apps available for download (Kumar et al. 2015). Most of them allow users to track their BP, BMI, and body weight by entering the data into their smartphones. Some of these apps provide access to information about hypertension, medication adherence, and diet. Reports indicate that these tracking and educational apps include design features that make them beneficial for monitoring BP and factors related to it (e.g., body weight, stress level).
Some Android apps assess blood pressure and heart rate by using the phone's camera and microphone. These apps may provide opportunities to track blood pressure for general knowledge. It is important to understand that none of them have undergone the rigorous testing required of traditional blood pressure devices. The apps have also not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Therefore, health care providers should be cautious with information from these apps as provided to them by their clients.
Using technology to increase physical activity at work
Active workstations (e.g., treadmill desks or pedal desks) and adjustable-height work surfaces that allow employees to stand (sit-stand desks) are becoming more commonplace.
Active workstations (e.g., treadmill desks or pedal desks) and adjustable-height work surfaces that allow employees to stand (sit-stand desks) are becoming more commonplace. They provide a means to reduce prolonged periods of sitting. Some employees have their own active workstations, while others have access to one located in a common area. A recent review of studies about active workstations (Cao et al. 2016) indicates that the calories burned may increase two- to fourfold for employees who change from sitting in a chair (~70-90 kcal·h−1) to active workstations. Additionally, daily step counts and physical activity (min/day) increase dramatically for those using active workstations during the workday. Crandall and colleagues (2016) found that using sit-stand workstations reduces sitting time by approximately 85 min/day. They also reported that employees using a shared treadmill desk accumulate slightly fewer than 9,000 steps·day−1 while at work. Ongoing longitudinal research in this area may identify long-term effects of using active workstations on employee health. Currently, these effects are not well documented.
Activity trackers: are they accurate for estimating energy expenditure?
Being able to track energy (caloric) expenditure is of great importance for those pursuing weight loss and weight maintenance goals. But the technology to track energy expenditure (EE) with a high degree of accuracy is still lacking.
Being able to track energy (caloric) expenditure is of great importance for those pursuing weight loss and weight maintenance goals. But the technology to track energy expenditure (EE) with a high degree of accuracy is still lacking. Research results are mixed on the ability of activity trackers to accurately compute TEE in controlled laboratory settings, during semi-structured activities, and in free-living environments. Although the correlation between activity tracking accelerometers is reported to be moderate to strong, significant underestimations of the reference values are common. Accelerometers, categorized as research-grade (ActiGraph GT3X+, BodyMedia Core, Body Media SenseWear), underestimate energy expenditure in comparison to the gold standard, indirect calorimetry (Bai et al. 2016; Ferguson et al. 2015; Imboden et al. 2017; Kim and Welk 2015).
Consumer-targeted devices worn during a variety of activities produce large differences and variable estimates of EE and tend to underestimate reference values of EE (Bai et al 2016; Ferguson et al. 2015; Imboden et al. 2017; Kim and Welk 2015; Price et al. 2017; Sasaki et al. 2015). Typically, the proprietary algorithms developed by the manufacturers account for differences between devices. Although some accelerometers perform better during moderate- to fast-paced activities (ActiGraph GT3X+, BodyMedia SenseWear, Core Armband), others perform better during slow-paced activities (activPAL). Lyden and associates (2017) reported that the activPAL accurately categorizes sedentary behaviors as well as light-intensity and MVPA exercise compared with direct observation. Triaxial and multisensory devices tend to provide more accurate estimates of TEE than uniaxial devices (Van Remoortel et al. 2012).
Blood pressure-related smartphone apps
There are no fewer than 100 hypertension-related apps available for download (Kumar et al. 2015). Most of them allow users to track their BP, BMI, and body weight by entering the data into their smartphones.
There are no fewer than 100 hypertension-related apps available for download (Kumar et al. 2015). Most of them allow users to track their BP, BMI, and body weight by entering the data into their smartphones. Some of these apps provide access to information about hypertension, medication adherence, and diet. Reports indicate that these tracking and educational apps include design features that make them beneficial for monitoring BP and factors related to it (e.g., body weight, stress level).
Some Android apps assess blood pressure and heart rate by using the phone's camera and microphone. These apps may provide opportunities to track blood pressure for general knowledge. It is important to understand that none of them have undergone the rigorous testing required of traditional blood pressure devices. The apps have also not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Therefore, health care providers should be cautious with information from these apps as provided to them by their clients.
Using technology to increase physical activity at work
Active workstations (e.g., treadmill desks or pedal desks) and adjustable-height work surfaces that allow employees to stand (sit-stand desks) are becoming more commonplace.
Active workstations (e.g., treadmill desks or pedal desks) and adjustable-height work surfaces that allow employees to stand (sit-stand desks) are becoming more commonplace. They provide a means to reduce prolonged periods of sitting. Some employees have their own active workstations, while others have access to one located in a common area. A recent review of studies about active workstations (Cao et al. 2016) indicates that the calories burned may increase two- to fourfold for employees who change from sitting in a chair (~70-90 kcal·h−1) to active workstations. Additionally, daily step counts and physical activity (min/day) increase dramatically for those using active workstations during the workday. Crandall and colleagues (2016) found that using sit-stand workstations reduces sitting time by approximately 85 min/day. They also reported that employees using a shared treadmill desk accumulate slightly fewer than 9,000 steps·day−1 while at work. Ongoing longitudinal research in this area may identify long-term effects of using active workstations on employee health. Currently, these effects are not well documented.
Activity trackers: are they accurate for estimating energy expenditure?
Being able to track energy (caloric) expenditure is of great importance for those pursuing weight loss and weight maintenance goals. But the technology to track energy expenditure (EE) with a high degree of accuracy is still lacking.
Being able to track energy (caloric) expenditure is of great importance for those pursuing weight loss and weight maintenance goals. But the technology to track energy expenditure (EE) with a high degree of accuracy is still lacking. Research results are mixed on the ability of activity trackers to accurately compute TEE in controlled laboratory settings, during semi-structured activities, and in free-living environments. Although the correlation between activity tracking accelerometers is reported to be moderate to strong, significant underestimations of the reference values are common. Accelerometers, categorized as research-grade (ActiGraph GT3X+, BodyMedia Core, Body Media SenseWear), underestimate energy expenditure in comparison to the gold standard, indirect calorimetry (Bai et al. 2016; Ferguson et al. 2015; Imboden et al. 2017; Kim and Welk 2015).
Consumer-targeted devices worn during a variety of activities produce large differences and variable estimates of EE and tend to underestimate reference values of EE (Bai et al 2016; Ferguson et al. 2015; Imboden et al. 2017; Kim and Welk 2015; Price et al. 2017; Sasaki et al. 2015). Typically, the proprietary algorithms developed by the manufacturers account for differences between devices. Although some accelerometers perform better during moderate- to fast-paced activities (ActiGraph GT3X+, BodyMedia SenseWear, Core Armband), others perform better during slow-paced activities (activPAL). Lyden and associates (2017) reported that the activPAL accurately categorizes sedentary behaviors as well as light-intensity and MVPA exercise compared with direct observation. Triaxial and multisensory devices tend to provide more accurate estimates of TEE than uniaxial devices (Van Remoortel et al. 2012).
Blood pressure-related smartphone apps
There are no fewer than 100 hypertension-related apps available for download (Kumar et al. 2015). Most of them allow users to track their BP, BMI, and body weight by entering the data into their smartphones.
There are no fewer than 100 hypertension-related apps available for download (Kumar et al. 2015). Most of them allow users to track their BP, BMI, and body weight by entering the data into their smartphones. Some of these apps provide access to information about hypertension, medication adherence, and diet. Reports indicate that these tracking and educational apps include design features that make them beneficial for monitoring BP and factors related to it (e.g., body weight, stress level).
Some Android apps assess blood pressure and heart rate by using the phone's camera and microphone. These apps may provide opportunities to track blood pressure for general knowledge. It is important to understand that none of them have undergone the rigorous testing required of traditional blood pressure devices. The apps have also not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Therefore, health care providers should be cautious with information from these apps as provided to them by their clients.
Using technology to increase physical activity at work
Active workstations (e.g., treadmill desks or pedal desks) and adjustable-height work surfaces that allow employees to stand (sit-stand desks) are becoming more commonplace.
Active workstations (e.g., treadmill desks or pedal desks) and adjustable-height work surfaces that allow employees to stand (sit-stand desks) are becoming more commonplace. They provide a means to reduce prolonged periods of sitting. Some employees have their own active workstations, while others have access to one located in a common area. A recent review of studies about active workstations (Cao et al. 2016) indicates that the calories burned may increase two- to fourfold for employees who change from sitting in a chair (~70-90 kcal·h−1) to active workstations. Additionally, daily step counts and physical activity (min/day) increase dramatically for those using active workstations during the workday. Crandall and colleagues (2016) found that using sit-stand workstations reduces sitting time by approximately 85 min/day. They also reported that employees using a shared treadmill desk accumulate slightly fewer than 9,000 steps·day−1 while at work. Ongoing longitudinal research in this area may identify long-term effects of using active workstations on employee health. Currently, these effects are not well documented.
Activity trackers: are they accurate for estimating energy expenditure?
Being able to track energy (caloric) expenditure is of great importance for those pursuing weight loss and weight maintenance goals. But the technology to track energy expenditure (EE) with a high degree of accuracy is still lacking.
Being able to track energy (caloric) expenditure is of great importance for those pursuing weight loss and weight maintenance goals. But the technology to track energy expenditure (EE) with a high degree of accuracy is still lacking. Research results are mixed on the ability of activity trackers to accurately compute TEE in controlled laboratory settings, during semi-structured activities, and in free-living environments. Although the correlation between activity tracking accelerometers is reported to be moderate to strong, significant underestimations of the reference values are common. Accelerometers, categorized as research-grade (ActiGraph GT3X+, BodyMedia Core, Body Media SenseWear), underestimate energy expenditure in comparison to the gold standard, indirect calorimetry (Bai et al. 2016; Ferguson et al. 2015; Imboden et al. 2017; Kim and Welk 2015).
Consumer-targeted devices worn during a variety of activities produce large differences and variable estimates of EE and tend to underestimate reference values of EE (Bai et al 2016; Ferguson et al. 2015; Imboden et al. 2017; Kim and Welk 2015; Price et al. 2017; Sasaki et al. 2015). Typically, the proprietary algorithms developed by the manufacturers account for differences between devices. Although some accelerometers perform better during moderate- to fast-paced activities (ActiGraph GT3X+, BodyMedia SenseWear, Core Armband), others perform better during slow-paced activities (activPAL). Lyden and associates (2017) reported that the activPAL accurately categorizes sedentary behaviors as well as light-intensity and MVPA exercise compared with direct observation. Triaxial and multisensory devices tend to provide more accurate estimates of TEE than uniaxial devices (Van Remoortel et al. 2012).
Blood pressure-related smartphone apps
There are no fewer than 100 hypertension-related apps available for download (Kumar et al. 2015). Most of them allow users to track their BP, BMI, and body weight by entering the data into their smartphones.
There are no fewer than 100 hypertension-related apps available for download (Kumar et al. 2015). Most of them allow users to track their BP, BMI, and body weight by entering the data into their smartphones. Some of these apps provide access to information about hypertension, medication adherence, and diet. Reports indicate that these tracking and educational apps include design features that make them beneficial for monitoring BP and factors related to it (e.g., body weight, stress level).
Some Android apps assess blood pressure and heart rate by using the phone's camera and microphone. These apps may provide opportunities to track blood pressure for general knowledge. It is important to understand that none of them have undergone the rigorous testing required of traditional blood pressure devices. The apps have also not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Therefore, health care providers should be cautious with information from these apps as provided to them by their clients.
Using technology to increase physical activity at work
Active workstations (e.g., treadmill desks or pedal desks) and adjustable-height work surfaces that allow employees to stand (sit-stand desks) are becoming more commonplace.
Active workstations (e.g., treadmill desks or pedal desks) and adjustable-height work surfaces that allow employees to stand (sit-stand desks) are becoming more commonplace. They provide a means to reduce prolonged periods of sitting. Some employees have their own active workstations, while others have access to one located in a common area. A recent review of studies about active workstations (Cao et al. 2016) indicates that the calories burned may increase two- to fourfold for employees who change from sitting in a chair (~70-90 kcal·h−1) to active workstations. Additionally, daily step counts and physical activity (min/day) increase dramatically for those using active workstations during the workday. Crandall and colleagues (2016) found that using sit-stand workstations reduces sitting time by approximately 85 min/day. They also reported that employees using a shared treadmill desk accumulate slightly fewer than 9,000 steps·day−1 while at work. Ongoing longitudinal research in this area may identify long-term effects of using active workstations on employee health. Currently, these effects are not well documented.