Physical activity measures

Abstract

Currently, many Americans do not obtain sufficient levels of physical activity, as identified by the 2008 US Physical Activity Guidelines. This places them at increased risk of mortality/morbidity, as well as diseases such as obesity, diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke, and other chronic diseases. Primary care health-care professionals can provide advice or counseling to encourage their sedentary patients to exercise. Although studies examining the efficacy of physician-based counseling have shown conflicting results, this is due in part to differences in study designs, implementation, and patient populations. Simple tools (e.g., very brief questionnaires) can be used to assess where patients stand regarding exercise. These include Physical Activity as a Vital Sign, the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire, and the Stages of Exercise Behavior Change survey. Recent studies conducted in primary care settings over the past 5-10 years indicate that the use of pedometers (in conjunction with a daily step goal, activity log, and follow-up) is helpful in encouraging sedentary patients to increase their levels of physical activity by approximately 2500 steps per day.