Physical Activity Measurement in Children Accepting Table Tennis Training

J Vis Exp. 2022 Jul 27:(185). doi: 10.3791/63937.

Abstract

An increasing body of evidence now shows that the majority of children in China experience lower levels of physical activity (PA) than the recommended guideline. Table tennis is a compound and technically difficult game that is popular in China; undertaking table tennis training in clubs can help children to elevate their levels of PA. Given that children cannot complete self-evaluated questionnaires themselves and caregiver-based observations are not suitable for children, we hypothesized that an actigraphy-based method can be an objective method to measure PA. In the present study, we describe a procedure that can be used to evaluate PA levels using an actigraphic device and software. Furthermore, since hip-worn devices are known to reduce compliance, we attempted to assess the agreement between hip-worn and wrist-worn device data. Collectively, our results indicate that these devices are suitable for measuring PA and leisure time physical activity (LTPA) levels. Together with subjective questionnaires, both hip-worn and wrist-worn devices are highly suitable for evaluating PA in Chinese children undergoing table tennis training in clubs.

Publication types

  • Video-Audio Media
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Actigraphy
  • Child
  • Exercise
  • Humans
  • Motor Activity
  • Tennis*
  • Wrist