The Validity of the Tritrac-R3D Activity Monitor for the Assessment of Physical Activity in Children |
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| Authors: | Gregory J Welk PhD Charles B Corbin |
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| Institution: | 1. Department of Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance , Eastern Michigan University , Ypsilanti , USA;2. Department of Exercise Science and Physical Education , Arizona State University , Tempe , USA |
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| Abstract: | Abstract The purpose of this study was to evaluate the validity of the Tritrac-R3D Activity Monitor, a new instrument designed to improve assessments of physical activity. Comparisons were made with a heart rate monitor and with a Caltrac Activity Monitor. Thirty-five children (ages 9–11 years) were monitored on 3 different school days with all 3 instruments. The Tritrac was moderately correlated with the heart rate monitor (r =.58) and highly correlated with the Caltrac monitor (r =.88). By taking advantage of the minute-by-minute timing capability of the Tritrac and the heart rate monitors, it was discovered, that the correlations between these instruments were highest during free play situations (lunch/recess, recess, after school) and were lower when activity was more limited (class time) or structured (physical education). The ability of the Tritrac to assess activity on a minute-by-minute basis may greatly enhance its overall utility. |
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| Keywords: | children physical activity activity monitors heart rate monitor |
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