Predictive Validity and Classification Accuracy of ActiGraph Energy Expenditure Equations and Cut-Points in Young Children

Abstract

Evaluate the predictive validity of ActiGraph energy expenditure equations and the classification accuracy of physical activity intensity cut-points in preschoolers. 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. The Pate equation significantly overestimated VO₂ during sedentary behaviors, light physical activities and total VO₂ (P2 during moderate-to vigorous-intensity physical activities (P = 0.072). The Puyau equation significantly underestimated activity energy expenditure during moderate-to vigorous-intensity physical activities, light-intensity physical activities and total activity energy expenditure (P−1 and ≥420 counts⋅15 s⁻¹ for classifying sedentary behaviors and moderate-to vigorous-intensity physical activities, respectively, are recommended.