Validity of tritrac tri-axial accelerometer: a review of literature

Resumen

Physical activity is one of the main components of a healthy lifestyle due to reduction of risk for several diseases and the many health benefits. However, the need for a measurement is a challenge to researchers. There are several methods mentioned in the literature such as doubly labeled water, indirect calorimetry, the accelerometers, pedometers and questionnaires. Nevertheless all show limitations in either reliability, usage or elevated costs. This review presents an overview of the Tri-axial accelerometer TriTrac (models R3D and RT3), focusing on their characteristics and functions, as well as the main validation studies. The Brazilian studies using accelerometers as a physical activity measurement were also analyzed. The available data seem to confirm that both models of TriTrac accelerometer provide an easy-to-use and valid method for measuring physical activity levels among several age groups, however, it is recommended a report of the physical activities along with accelerometer data for a complete and reliable information.