Accuracy of the SenseWear Pro ArmbandTM During Short Bouts of Exercise

Abstract

Due to the limitations of traditional metabolic measuring systems and other devices used to measure energy expenditure, new technologies that are more mobile and comfortable are being designed for use in the physical activity monitoring. One product in particular, developed by Body Media, is known as the SenseWear Pro ArmbandTM. The device, worn around the subject’s upper arm, collects information through sensors that measure heat flux, skin temperature and response, and body temperature. Along with demographic information, this information is used to calculate the energy expenditure. The SenseWear Pro ArmbandTM is wireless, which makes energy expenditure measurements in the lab easier to obtain. However, it is still a relatively recent innovation. More testing is needed, especially during short bouts of activity, to confirm its validity for energy expenditure measurement. The purpose of this study was to compare the energy expenditure data obtained from the SenseWear Pro ArmbandTM to indirect calorimetry in a cross sectional cohort study during five exercise intensities: walking at preferred speed, running at preferred speed and running at speeds corresponding to 75%, 85% and 95% of predicted VO2max. Participants (n=10) were fitted with the SenseWear Pro ArmbandTM and equipped for indirect calorimetry assessment. Minute-by-minute data was exported from each device for all 4-minute exercise conditions. Total energy expenditure in the form of average and peak kilocalories expended was compared between the two devices. The SenseWear Pro ArmbandTM had a statistically significant overestimation in the preferred walking condition in both average (38%) and peak (45%) kilocalories burned per minute. There was also an observable underestimation by the armband in the 95% pVO2max condition in both the average (14%) and peak (12%) kCal/min. Minimal difference were noted during the moderate intensity running conditions (1-7%).