Self-reported Moderate-to-vigorous Intensity Physical Activity Research Articles

Incongruence between Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Subjective Reports of Physical Activity in Multiple Sclerosis: A Focus on Sex Differences.

The link between moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA) and cardiorespiratory fitness in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) remains unclear. This study examined the relationship between self-reported MVPA and objectively assessed cardiorespiratory fitness, emphasizing sex differences. 107 adults with MS (77 females), aged (mean ± standard deviation) 47.2 ± 10.2 years, were recruited from a local MS clinic. Fitness was measured as maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O2max) during a graded maximal exercise test using a recumbent stepper. MVPA (24-hour recall) was estimated as the duration of activities ≥ 3 MET (metabolic equivalent of task). MET-minutes were calculated by multiplying MET by duration. We explored sex differences in self-reported MVPA, cardiorespiratory fitness, and disability; examined sex differences in associations between these variables; and investigated whether MET-minutes of MVPA predicted V̇O2max in females and males. Mean V̇O2max was 24.79 mL·kg-1·min-1, indicating poor cardiorespiratory fitness levels, despite high levels of self-reported MVPA (mean = 412.5 MET-minutes). Fifty-three percent of males and 40% of females had V̇O2max levels below the 20th age- and sex-standardized population percentile, indicating poor cardiorespiratory fitness. There were statistically significant associations between MVPA and V̇O2max (Rho = 0.27, p = .01), as well as disability and V̇O2max (Rho = -0.35, p = .02), in females but not males. A regression model using sex, age, body mass, disability, and MVPA to estimate V̇O2max was valid in predicting V̇O2max values that were statistically equivalent to those measured in the laboratory in females but not males. However, the inclusion of MVPA did not add to the predictive value of this equation. Despite reporting high levels of MVPA, people with MS had poor cardiorespiratory fitness. MVPA, fitness, and disability were associated in females only, indicating that sex differences should be considered in fitness appraisal. Self-reported MVPA did not predict fitness, suggesting 24-hour recall may not be representative of true activity or fitness levels in persons with MS. Future work should examine sex differences in associations between MVPA and fitness using objective measures such as accelerometry.

Regional trends in the moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity and screen time of Canadians before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, public health approaches and disease-transmission varied widely across Canadian regions. This may have led to different trajectories for moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) and screen time during this period. The purpose of this investigation was to describe age- and gender-specific regional trends in MVPA and screen time for Canadian youth (ages 12-17 years) and adults (ages 18+) from 2018 to 2021. Data was collected using the Canadian Community Health Survey, which includes representative data for 5 distinct regions: Atlantic Canada, Québec, Ontario, the Prairie Provinces, and British Columbia (BC). Participants aged 12+ in each region self-reported their total daily screen time, as well as MVPA in 5 domains: overall, recreational, school, occupational/household and active transportation. Results were compared for 2018 (pre-pandemic), January-March of 2020, September-December of 2020, and 2021 using repeated measures t-tests. Among youth, all regions except for Atlantic Canada and BC experienced significant reductions in the proportion of youth meeting MVPA recommendations in the fall of 2020 (all p <0.001), although these had returned to baseline for all regions except Ontario by 2021. Trends varied across regions among adults aged 18-64 years. In Québec, there was 7-percentage point reduction in the proportion of males meeting the MVPA recommendations in the fall of 2020 compared to 2018, while there was a 4-percentage point increase among females in 2021 (all p<0.05). In Ontario and the Prairie provinces, males saw a 4-percentage point decrease in activity recommendation adherence in 2021, when compared to 2018 (p<005). There were no other significant differences for any region when comparing the fall of 2020 or 2021 with 2018 (all p>0.05). Among adults aged 65+ years, significant increases in MVPA were observed in Atlantic Canada and the Prairies in the fall of 2020, and in Atlantic Canada, Québec and the Prairies in 2021 (all p<0.05). With limited exceptions, self-reported screen time increased significantly across regions and age groups for both males and females (all p < 0.05). MVPA levels of Canadians during the COVID-19 pandemic varied both by region and age group. Self-reported MVPA of Canadian youth dropped in most regions in the fall of 2020, before returning to pre-pandemic levels in 2021. Activity levels of Canadians aged 18-64 years were relatively stable during the pandemic and increased for Canadians aged 65+ in most regions. Differences in trajectories across genders observed at the national level were often less apparent in individual regions. Recreational screen use increased across all regions, ages and genders with very few exceptions. These results highlight the differences and similarities in activity and screen time trajectories across the Canadian population and suggest the need for additional research to identify best practices for promoting healthy movement behaviours during future pandemics.

Abstract 15184: Moderate-to-Vigorous Intensity Physical Activity and Incident Left-Sided Degenerative Valvular Heart Disease

Hypothesis: This study aimed to examine the impact of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) on the prevention of left-sided degenerative valvular heart disease (VHD) among middle-aged adults. Methods: In the UK biobank study, data from wrist-worn accelerometer and physical activity questionnaires were utilized to assess the role of MVPA volume on the incidence of aortic valve stenosis (AS), aortic valve regurgitation (AR), and mitral valve regurgitation (MR). The primary cohort involved 90,865 participants ( median 8.1-year follow-up period) without prevalent VHD and heart failure, who wore accelerometers for one week. The validation cohort included 397,335 participants (median 13.8-year follow-up period) who completed physical activity questionnaires. MVPA volume was categorized according to the American Heart Association’s recommendation. Results: Accelerometer-measured MVPA showed a curvilinear relationship with reduced AS risk, with the risk reduction plateauing above 300 min/week. Compared to no MVPA, those engaging in 150-299 minutes of MVPA per week showed the most significant risk reduction [1-149 min/week: adjusted hazard ratio (HR), 0.79 (0.58, 1.08); 150-299 min/week: HR, 0.52 (0.36, 0.75); ≥300 min/week: HR, 0.57 (0.39, 0.83)]. Similar results were found when repeating the above analyses in self-reported MVPA cohort, with a relatively smaller reduction in HR ratio [150-299 min/week: HR, 0.81 (0.73, 0.91)]. No significant association was found between the MVPA volume and the risk of AR and MR in both cohorts. Conclusions: Meeting current MVPA recommendations (150-300 min/week) was associated with the lowest AS risk. Targeting adherence to accelerometer-measured MVPA thresholds may enhance AS risk reduction. Additionally, MVPA showed limited effectiveness in preventing valvular regurgitation, indicating distinct mechanisms between stenotic lesions and regurgitation lesions in degenerative VHD.

Moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity among U.S. adolescents before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: Findings from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study

Only 16.1% percent of U.S. adolescents meet the recommendation of at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) per day. Studies report declined levels of adolescent MVPA in early stages of the pandemic, but gaps remain in understanding changes beyond the initial three months of the pandemic. This study aims to describe and compare self-reported adolescent MVPA levels at multiple timepoints before and during the COVID-19 pandemic among 11,865 9-11-year-old U.S. adolescents from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study, including pre-pandemic (September 2016-October 2018), early (May, June, and August 2020), and later (October and December 2020, March 2021) stages of the pandemic. Poisson regression models with robust error variance were used to estimate crude and adjusted prevalence ratios (APRs) of the proportion of adolescents meeting national MVPA guidelines during early and later stages of the pandemic compared to pre-pandemic. The proportion of adolescents meeting MVPA guidelines decreased from pre (16.4%), early (11.0%), and later (4.7%) COVID-19 pandemic timepoints. Adolescent MVPA guideline adherence at early- and later-pandemic stages was 24% lower (APR 0.76, 95% CI 0.62, 0.93) and 68% lower (APR 0.32, 95% CI 0.24, 0.43) than pre-pandemic adherence, respectively. Weekly MVPA duration decreased throughout May 2020 to March 2021 (χ2 = 488.9, p < 0.0001). Study findings build upon existing evidence that the low achievement of national MVPA guidelines before the pandemic became even lower during the pandemic, demonstrating the need to support and improve access to adolescent MVPA opportunities during COVID-19 pandemic recovery efforts and in future pandemics.

Abstract MP67: The Relationship of Cardiorespiratory Fitness, Physical Activity, and Coronary Artery Calcification to Incident Cardiovascular Disease Events in Cardia Participants

Introduction: Coronary artery calcification (CAC) score, physical activity (PA), and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) are all associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. While a U-shaped relationship between PA and CRF with CAC has been reported, CAC presence among highly fit individuals was suggested to be benign. Objective: To determine interactive associations of PA/CRF and CAC with outcomes in a cohort of middle-aged adults and to evaluate the relationship of PA/CRF with CAC incidence. Methods: CARDIA participants with CT-assessed CAC at year 20 (2005-06) were included (n=3141, mean age 45y, 57% female, 45% Black). Moderate to vigorous intensity PA (MVPA) was assessed by self-report and accelerometer. CRF was estimated with a treadmill test. Incident CVD events were adjudicated, and mortality data were obtained through 2019. CAC was reassessed at year 25 (2010-11). Cox models assessed hazard ratios (HRs) for CVD and mortality in groups defined by CAC and MVPA/CRF. Logistic models assessed associations with CAC incidence. Results: At baseline, more favorable CVD risk was found among participants with higher MVPA, higher CRF (&gt; median sex-specific duration), and absence of CAC. During a mean follow-up of 13 years, 166 CVD events and 171 deaths occurred. After multivariable adjustment, compared with no CAC and higher CRF (ref), the HRs (95% CIs) for CVD were 5.04 (2.49-10.20) for CAC and higher CRF, 2.26 (1.24-4.12) for no CAC and lower CRF, and 4.27 (2.24-8.14) for CAC and lower CRF (Figure, left panel). The respective HRs for mortality were 1.12 (0.45-2.77), 1.54 (0.91-2.60), and 3.23 (1.82-5.72) (Figure, right panel). Similar findings were observed with self-reported or accelerometer MVPA replacing CRF. Higher CRF and accelerometer MVPA were dose-responsively associated with a lower probability of developing CAC in a 5-year follow-up (P &lt; .01). Conclusions: PA and CRF were inversely associated with CAC incidence in middle-aged adults. CAC presence eliminated the cardiovascular risk advantage of high PA or high CRF.

Physical Activity, Sedentary Behavior, and the Risk of Cardiovascular Disease in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients: The MIDiab Study

The aim of this study was to explore the associations of moderate-to-vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA) time and sedentary (SED) time with a history of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and multifactorial (i.e., blood pressure (BP), body mass index (BMI), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c)) control status among type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients in China. A cross-sectional analysis of 9152 people with type 2 diabetes from the Multifactorial Intervention on Type 2 Diabetes (MIDiab) study was performed. Patients were grouped according to their self-reported MVPA time (low, < 150 min·week −1 ; moderate, 150 to < 450 min·week −1 ; high, ≥ 450 min·week −1 ) and SED time (low, < 4 h·d –1 ; moderate, 4 to < 8 h·d –1 ; high, ≥ 8 h·d –1 ). Participants who self-reported a history of CVD were identified as having a CVD risk. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of CVD risk and multifactorial control status associated with MVPA time and SED time were estimated using mixed-effect logistic regression models, adjusting for China’s geographical region characteristics. The participants had a mean ± standard deviation (SD) age of (60.87 ± 8.44) years; 44.5% were women, and 25.1% had CVD. After adjustment for potential confounding factors, an inverse association between high MVPA time and CVD risk that was independent of SED time was found, whereas this association was not observed in the moderate-MVPA group. A higher MVPA time was more likely to have a positive effect on the control of BMI. Compared with the reference group (i.e., those with MVPA time ≥ 450 min·week −1 and SED time < 4 h·d –1 ), CVD risk was higher in the low-MVPA group: The OR associated with an SED time < 4 h·d –1 was 1.270 (95% CI, 1.040–1.553) and that associated with an SED time ≥ 8 h·d –1 was 1.499 (95% CI, 1.149–1.955). We found that a high MVPA time (i.e., more than 450 min·week −1 ) was associated with lower odds of CVD risk regardless of SED time among patients with T2DM.

The Individual-Level Productivity Costs of Physical Inactivity.

This study estimated the long-term individual-level productivity costs of physical inactivity. The data were drawn from the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966, to which the productivity cost variables (sick leaves and disability pensions) from Finnish registries were linked. Individuals ( N = 6261) were categorized into physical activity groups based on their level of physical activity, which was measured in three ways: 1) self-reported leisure-time moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA) at 46 yr old, 2) longitudinal self-reported leisure-time MVPA at 31-46 yr old, and 3) accelerometer-measured overall MVPA at 46 yr old. The human capital approach was applied to calculate the observed costs (years 2012-2020) and the expected costs (years 2012-2031). The results showed that the average individual-level productivity costs were higher among physically inactive compared with the costs among physically active. The results were consistent regardless of the measurement type of physical activity or the period used. On average, the observed long-term productivity costs among physically inactive individuals were €1900 higher based on self-reported MVPA, €1800 higher based on longitudinal MVPA, and €4300 higher based on accelerometer-measured MVPA compared with the corresponding productivity costs among physically active individuals. The corresponding difference in the expected costs was €2800, €1200, and €8700, respectively. The results provide evidence that productivity costs differ according to an individual's level of physical activity. Therefore, investments in physical activity may decrease not only the direct healthcare costs but also the indirect productivity costs paid by the employee, the employer, and the government.

The Need for Objective Physical Activity Measurements in Routine Bariatric Care

PurposeThis study aims to (1) quantify physical behavior through self-reports and sensor-based measures, (2) examine the correlation between self-reported and sensor-based physical activity (PA) and (3) assess whether bariatric patients adhere to PA guidelines.MethodsA Fitbit accelerometer was used to collect minute-to-minute step count and heart rate data for 14 consecutive days. Total physical activity levels (PAL), moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) and sedentary behavior (SB) were used to quantify physical behavior. Self-reported PA was assessed with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). To analyze the association between sensor-based and self-reported PA, Spearman’s correlation was used. A minimum of 150 MVPA minutes per week was considered as compliance with the PA guidelines.ResultsFitbit data of 37 pre- and 18 post-surgery patients was analyzed. Participants averaged 7403 ± 3243 steps/day and spent most of their time sedentary (832 min, IQR: 749 – 879), especially in prolonged periods of ≥ 30 min (525, IQR: 419 – 641). Median MVPA time was 5.6 min/day (IQR: 1.7 – 10.6). Correlations between self-reported and sensor-based MVPA and SB were respectively 0.072 and 0.455. Only 17.1% was objectively adherent to MVPA guidelines ≥ 150 min/week, while 94.3% met the guidelines in case of self-reports.ConclusionPA quantification confirmed that bariatric patients are highly sedentary and rarely engage in MVPA, despite a relatively high daily step count. Moreover, bariatric patients are not able to assess MVPA and moderately their SB by self-reports. Our results indicate the need for sensor-based PA monitoring in routine bariatric care.Graphical abstract

Effectiveness of physical activity interventions delivered or prompted by health professionals in primary care settings: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

ObjectiveTo examine the effectiveness of physical activity interventions delivered or prompted by primary care health professionals for increasing moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) in adult patients.DesignSystematic review and...

Longitudinal bidirectional associations of physical activity and depressive symptoms: The CARDIA study

Depression affects many aspects of health and may be attenuated through increases in physical activity. While bidirectional associations between physical activity (PA) and depressive symptoms have been examined, few studies have examined these associations using both self-reported and accelerometer-estimated measures. Using data from Years 20 (2005–06, age 38–50) and 30 of the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study (N = 2,871), the bidirectional associations between moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) and depressive symptoms were examined using a cross-lagged panel model. Differences in the observed associations by physical activity assessment method were also examined. An inverse bidirectional association between self-reported MVPA and depressive symptoms was found. In subsequent analyses stratified by intensity category, higher levels of vigorous intensity physical activity at baseline, but not moderate intensity physical activity were associated with lower levels of depressive symptoms at the 10-year follow-up (ϕ = −0.04, p < 0.01; ϕ = −0.03, p = 0.15, respectively). A 10-year increase in self-reported MVPA was associated with a 10-year decrease in depressive symptoms. No associations were observed between accelerometer MVPA estimates and depressive symptoms. These findings may support the notion that each assessment method captures related, but also unique, aspects of physical activity behavior. When possible, future studies should explore measures of association by each physical activity assessment method to gain a better understanding of the complex relationship between physical activity and health.

Couple-Based Physical Activity Planning for New Parents: A Randomized Trial

The demands of parenthood may limit the pursuit of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA), establish inactivity patterns into middle age, and lead to long-term poorer health and well-being. The purpose of this study was to examine the efficacy of a couple-based planning skills intervention to support MVPA from baseline (~2 months after birth) up to 6 months later in first-time parents. Randomized trial. 264 parents (132 couples) at the 2-month point of parenting their first child. Couples were randomized to either an education control (n=58 couples) or an education plus planning condition (n=74 couples). MVPA was assessed via accelerometry and self-report at baseline, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months. Health-related fitness (aerobic fitness, muscular strength, flexibility) and BMI tests were conducted at baseline and 6 months. Rolling recruitment was between 2014 and 2017. The accelerometry results had large amounts of missing data that were not missing at random, so only self-reported MVPA was analyzed. Dyadic multilevel modeling conducted in 2020 showed that mothers' MVPA had a significant quadratic pattern over time that was similar for both conditions, and BMI decreased while strength and flexibility increased. Fathers did not have significant outcomes. Participants who were not meeting MVPA guidelines at baseline responded to the education plus planning condition with increased MVPA (father B=1.31, mother B=1.14, p<0.05) compared with those who initially met those guidelines. Mothers may be more responsive than fathers to MVPA interventions in early parenthood. Already active parents likely have little to be gained from additional intervention. Future research is needed to effectively promote MVPA during fatherhood and identify novel ways to sustain PA past the early response to an intervention. This study is registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov NCT02290808.

Self-reported and activPALTM-monitored physical activity and sedentary behaviour in college students: Not all sitting behaviours are linked to perceived stress and anxiety

ABSTRACT This study examined relationships between physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviour (SB) with state-trait anxiety and stress. State-Trait anxiety (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory), psychological stress (Perceived Stress Scale), SB across domains during weekdays and weekends (Last 7-day Sedentary Behaviour Questionnaire) and PA intensities (International Physical Activity Questionnaire) were assessed by self-report in 360 undergraduates (44% females, mean age 20.9 ± 2.93 years). A subsample (n = 121; 53.7% females; mean age 20.8 ± 2.6 years) wore an activPALTM to determine total SB, light, and moderate-to-vigorous intensity PA (MVPA). Self-reported MVPA was significantly associated with lower trait anxiety and perceived stress, whereas light PA was only associated with lower perceived stress. Weekend total self-reported SB was related to higher trait anxiety and perceived stress levels, while total SB during the week was not. Of all SB domains, only leisure SB (screen and non-screen based) was associated with higher trait anxiety and perceived stress. PA attenuated the negative relationships between excessive sitting time and trait anxiety but not perceived stress. No associations were found for monitor-based measures of PA and SB. No associations were found between PA or SB variables with state anxiety. Further research is needed to assess causal and reciprocal relationships between PA, SB and mental health in college students.

Biopsychosocial correlates of physical activity and sedentary time in adults with severe obesity.

Adults with severe obesity have poorer health, are less active and spend more time sedentary compared to people with a lower body mass index (BMI). There is a pressing need to understand the factors associated with low physical activity (PA) and excessive sedentary time to develop more effective behaviour change interventions for this population. The purpose of this study was to identify biopsychosocial correlates of PA and sedentary time in adults living with severe obesity. Forty-four adults living with severe obesity (age = 50.5 ± 13.3 years; BMI = 44.3 ± 7.8 kg/m2 ) completed a survey including questions on sociodemographic characteristics, comorbidities, psychosocial factors (eg, social physique anxiety [SPA], social support for PA, PA level self-perception), quality of life, daily pain and self-reported moderate-to-vigorous intensity PA (MVPA). Participants also completed the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) to assess physical fitness and wore an accelerometer to assess objective PA and sedentary time. In stepwise linear multivariate analyses, higher objective MVPA was associated with higher 6MWT distance, being single and lower SPA (R2 = 0.46, P < .001), whereas higher self-reported MVPA was associated with greater PA level self-perceptions (R2 = 0.47, P < .001). Greater objective light intensity PA was associated with greater quality of life and self-efficacy for PA (R2 = 0.26, P = .001). Greater sedentary time was associated with having more comorbidities (R2 = 0.25, P < .001). This study shows that adults living with severe obesity who have more comorbidities, poorer quality of life and/or lower self-efficacy perception for PA are more likely to be sedentary and to practice less light intensity PA. Additionally, those who were in a relationship, had higher SPA and/or had lower physical fitness practiced less MVPA. Future research is needed to determine causal effects.

Amount and Socio-Ecological Correlates of Exercise in Men and Women at Cardiac Rehabilitation Completion.

The aim of the study was to describe (1) the amount of physical activity (PA) in cardiac rehabilitation (CR) graduates by sex, and (2) the correlates of their PA. Secondary analysis of baseline data from a randomized trial was undertaken. Graduates were recruited from three CR programs. Participants completed a questionnaire, which assessed constructs from the socio-ecological model (i.e., individual-level, social- and physical-environmental levels). Physical activity was measured objectively using an ActiGraph GT3X accelerometer. Multilevel modeling was performed. Two hundred fifty-five patients consented, of which 200 (78.4%) completed the survey and provided valid accelerometer data. Participants self-reported engaging in a mean ± standard deviation of 184.51 ± 129.10 min of moderate-to-vigorous-intensity PA (MVPA) per week (with men engaging in more than women, P < 0.05). Accelerometer data revealed participants engaged in 169.65 ± 136.49 mins of MVPA per week, with 43 (25.1%) meeting recommendations. In the mixed models, the socio-ecological correlate significantly related to greater self-reported MVPA was self-regulation (P = 0.01); the correlate of accelerometer-derived MVPA was neighborhood aesthetics (P = 0.02). Approximately one-quarter of CR program completers are achieving MVPA recommendations, although two-thirds perceive they are. The CR programs should exploit accelerometry and promote self-regulation skills, namely, self-monitoring, goal-setting, positive reinforcement, time management, and relapse prevention. Patients should be encouraged to exercise in pleasing locations.

Prepregnancy Fitness and Risk of Gestational Diabetes: A Longitudinal Analysis.

This study aimed to assess the associations of prepregnancy cardiorespiratory fitness, moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA), and time spent watching television with subsequent development of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Participants were 1333 women enrolled in the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults study who did not have diabetes either at baseline (1985-86) or before births occurring after baseline. Baseline fitness was estimated using a graded symptom-limited maximal exercise treadmill test and expressed in MET units. Baseline MVPA (exercise units per day) was measured using the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults physical activity history questionnaire, and television viewing (h·d) was assessed by self-report in 1990-1991. Logistic regression analysis was used to derive odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals, adjusting for time from baseline to delivery and baseline study center, age, race, education, parity, family history of diabetes, smoking, alcohol, saturated fat intake, waist circumference, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance, and HDL cholesterol. Over 25 yr of follow-up, 164 women developed GDM. The odds of developing GDM were 21% lower for each 1 SD increment in baseline level of fitness (2.3 METs, odds ratio = 0.79, 95% confidence interval = 0.65-0.96). Prepregnancy MVPA and television viewing were not statistically associated with the development of GDM. Study findings indicate that objectively assessed prepregnancy fitness, but not self-reported MVPA or television time, is associated with GDM. Clinicians should counsel women on the benefits of improving fitness in the preconception period, particularly among women at greater risk for GDM.

Effect of a moderate-intensity demonstration walk on accuracy of physical activity self-report

Background/ObjectiveProviding a demonstration of a 10-minute bout of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) immediately prior to subjective reporting of MVPA could influence self-reported activity by calibrating both duration and intensity. We assessed the effect of a demonstration of MVPA on subsequent MVPA recall, and explored whether this improved agreement with objective measures of MVPA. MethodsA total of 846 individuals participated in four different physical activity interventions; two of which included a 10-minute moderate-intensity demonstration walk on a treadmill at baseline and 6-month visits immediately prior to reporting MVPA. Participants from three studies also wore accelerometers during the week overlapping with self-reported MVPA. ResultsOverall, those completing the demonstration walk reported significantly fewer minutes of MVPA per week at baseline (b=−11.69, standard error=2.53, p<0.01). The effect of the demonstration walk at 6 months was not significant (p=0.06). Correlations with accelerometers at baseline were higher in the two studies with the demonstration walk (ρ=0.28, 0.26) than the study without (ρ=0.04). Correlations with accelerometers increased overall from baseline to follow-up. ConclusionA 10-minute demonstration of MVPA was associated with reporting fewer minutes of MVPA and improved agreement with objective PA measures at baseline. These findings support combining self-report PA assessments with hands-on MVPA demonstrations.

Reducing Sedentary Behavior Versus Increasing Moderate-to-Vigorous Intensity Physical Activity in Older Adults.

To compare the effects of behavioral interventions targeting decreased sedentary behavior versus increased moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) in older adults. Inactive older adults ( N = 38, 68 ± 7 years old, 71% female) were randomized to 12-week interventions targeting decreased sedentary behavior ( Sit Less) or increased MVPA ( Get Active). The SenseWear armband was used to objectively assess activity in real time. Assessments included a blinded armband, the Community Health Activites Model Program for Senior (CHAMPS) questionnaire, 400-meter walk, and the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). Objectively measured MVPA increased in Get Active (75 ± 22 min/week, p < .001); self-reported MVPA increased in both groups ( p < .05). Sedentary behavior did not change in either group (all p > .05). Only the Sit Less group improved the SPPB score (0.5 ± 0.3, p = .046). Targeting reduced sedentary behavior had a greater effect on physical function among inactive but high functioning older adults over 12 weeks. Future studies of longer duration and combining increased MVPA with reduced sedentary behavior are needed.

Cancer patients participating in a lifestyle intervention during chemotherapy greatly over-report their physical activity level: a validation study

BackgroundThe short form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-sf) is a validated questionnaire used to assess physical activity (PA) in healthy adults and commonly used in both apparently healthy adults and cancer patients. However, the IPAQ-sf has not been previously validated in cancer patients undergoing oncologic treatment. The objective of the present study was to compare IPAQ-sf with objective measures of physical activity (PA) in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.MethodsThe present study was part of a 12-month prospective individualized lifestyle intervention focusing on diet, PA, stress management and smoking cessation in 100 cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. During the first two months of the lifestyle intervention, participants were wearing an activity monitor (SenseWear™ Armband (SWA)) for five consecutive days while receiving chemotherapy before completing the IPAQ-sf. From SWA, Moderate-to-Vigorous intensity PA (MVPA) in bouts ≥10 min was compared with self-reported MVPA from the IPAQ-sf. Analyses both included and excluded walking in MVPA from the IPAQ-sf. Results were extrapolated to a wearing time of seven days.ResultsSixty-six patients completed IPAQ-sf and wore the SWA over five days. Mean difference and limit of agreement between the IPAQ-sf and SWA including walking was 662 (±1719) min.wk−1. When analyzing time spent in the different intensity levels separately, IPAQ-sf reported significantly higher levels of moderate (602 min.wk−1, p = 0.001) and vigorous (60 min.wk−1, p = 0.001) PA compared to SWA.ConclusionsCancer patients participating in a lifestyle intervention during chemotherapy reported 366 % higher MVPA level from the past seven days using IPAQ-sf compared to objective measures. The IPAQ-sf appears insufficient when assessing PA level in cancer patients undergoing oncologic treatment. Activity monitors or other objective tools should alternatively be considered, when assessing PA in this population.Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13102-016-0035-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Effect of exposure to greater active videogame variety on time spent in moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity

BackgroundThis investigation examined whether exposure to greater active videogame variety increases moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA). MethodsTwenty-three participants (age=22.7±4.2yrs; body mass index=23.5±3.0kg/m2; self-reported MVPA=298.7±116.7min/wk; 62.2% female; 73.9% Caucasian) participated in VARIETY (4 different active videogames during 4, 15-min bouts) and NON-VARIETY (only 1 active videogame during 4, 15-min bouts) counterbalanced sessions. VARIETY provided a different active videogame in each bout. NON-VARIETY provided participants their most highly liked active videogame in each bout. The Sensewear Mini Armband objectively assessed MVPA. ResultsFor MVPA minutes, a session×bout (p<0.05) interaction occurred. In NON-VARIETY, bouts 2, 3, and 4 had significantly (p<0.05) fewer minutes than bout 1, with no decrease occurring in VARIETY. In bout 4, VARIETY had significantly (p<0.05) more minutes than NON-VARIETY. A main effect of session (p<0.05) occurred for MVPA minutes and energy expenditure, with VARIETY achieving greater amounts (31.8±14.3min vs. 27.6±16.9min; 186.1±96.8kcal vs. 171.2±102.8kcal). ConclusionsExposure to greater activity variety within a session increased MVPA. Future research should examine exposure to a variety of activities over a longer time frame with participants of differing lifestyles in free-living environments.

Baseline predictors of physical activity in a sample of adults with arthritis participating in a self-directed exercise program

ObjectivesTo examine baseline predictors of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) at the 12-week follow-up in a sample of adults with arthritis participating in a self-directed, multicomponent exercise program. Study designPretest–posttest. Analyses were limited to those randomized to the exercise intervention. MethodsParticipants (n = 152) completed a survey assessing demographic, health-related, and arthritis-related factors, and completed anthropometric and functional measurements at baseline. Self-reported MVPA was assessed at baseline and 12 weeks. Participants were classified as engaging in ≥2.5 or <2.5 h/week of MVPA at the 12-week follow-up. Baseline demographic, health-related, arthritis-related, and functional factors were examined as predictors of engaging in ≥2.5 h of MVPA. ResultsAt the 12-week follow-up, 66.5% (n = 101) of participants engaged in ≥2.5 h/week of MVPA. Those with a higher body mass index, more days with poor physical health, a greater number of health conditions, self-reported hypertension, self-reported high cholesterol, and greater pain and stiffness were less likely to engage in ≥2.5 h of MVPA at the 12-week follow-up; those with greater arthritis self-efficacy and better performance on the 6 minute walk test were more likely. None of the other factors examined were associated with MVPA. ConclusionsThis study uncovered health-related, arthritis-related, and functional factors associated with MVPA that may help guide intervention strategies. Participants with less severe symptoms, better functional performance and fewer comorbidities at baseline were more likely to achieve the recommended MVPA level at 12 weeks; therefore self-directed PA interventions may be best suited for those with relatively good health status despite arthritis, while those with worse symptoms and health status may benefit more from other intervention delivery modalities such as structured, individualized programs where additional support for managing arthritis symptoms and comorbidity can be addressed.