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Int J Sports Med 2005; 26(3): 208-213
DOI: 10.1055/s-2004-820958
Training & Testing

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Validity and Reliability of the FitSense FS-1 Speedometer During Walking and Running

S. A. Conger1 , S. J. Strath1 , D. R. Bassett Jr1
  • 1Department of Health and Exercise Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
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Publication History

Accepted after revision: March 1, 2004

Publication Date:
26 August 2004 (online)

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Abstract

This study examined the criterion-related validity and the reliability of the FitSense FS-1 Speedometer for estimating distance, speed, and energy expenditure (EE) during walking and running. The study was divided into two parts. Part I investigated the validity and the reliability of the FitSense for estimating distance while walking and running around a 400-m track (n = 24). Part II looked at the validity of the FitSense for estimating speed and EE during level treadmill walking (4.8, 6.4, and 8.0 km · h-1) and running (8.0, 9.6, and 11.2 km · h-1). Twelve of the original 24 subjects completed Part II. The results of Part I indicated that the FitSense accurately estimated walking distance, but it underestimated running distance by an average of 3.5 % (p = 0.016). Test-retest reliability was deemed adequate for both walking and running distance (ICC = 0.87 and 0.84, respectively). In Part II, the FitSense overestimated speed during treadmill walking at 8.0 km · h-1 (p < 0.001) and underestimated EE at two walking speeds (6.4 and 8.0 km · h-1) (p < 0.01). No significant differences were found for speed or EE predictions while running at any speed. In summary, the FitSense FS-1 Speedometer provided valid estimates of walking distance during track tests, and valid estimates of speed during treadmill walking (4.8 and 6.4 km · h-1) and running (9.6 and 11.2 km · h-1). However, the FitSense underestimated running distance during track tests. In addition, the FitSense overestimated speed and underestimated EE in the transition between walking and running (8.0 km · h-1).

Key words

Motion sensor - accelerometer - energy expenditure - physical activity - prediction

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S. A. Conger

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Nutrition, Metabolism, and Exercise Laboratory

4301 West Markham St., #806

Little Rock, AR 72205-7199

USA

Phone: + 5015265713

Fax: + 50 15 26 57 10

Email: saconger@uams.edu