The aim of this study was to verify the criterion and cross-validity of accelerometer thresholds for distinguishing different physical activity intensities and identifying sedentary behavior in children and adolescents. A systematic literature review was conducted using the PubMed, Scopus, Sports Discus and Web of Science databases. Inclusion criteria were: a) derivation and/or validation of accelerometer thresholds related to intensity of physical activity in youth (age 2 to 18 years); b) use of indirect calorimetry or direct observation as the reference method; c) original research articles published in English, Portuguese or Spanish. Nineteen studies were selected. The accelerometers most often investigated were ActiGraph, RT3 and Actical. Thresholds showed good to moderate validity in the calibration phase (sensitivity = 68 to 100%; specificity = 61 to 100%). Generalizability of the thresholds was higher when they were tested on independent samples (Kappa = 0.72 to 0.91; sensitivity = 79 to 94%; specificity = 72 to 98%) than during independent activities (Kappa = 0.46 to 0.71; sensitivity = 27 to 97%; specificity = 52 to 95%). One calibration study tested the validity of thresholds in independent samples and activities, and only one threshold validation study was found. In conclusion, limited information is available on the generality of accelerometer thresholds for physical activity monitoring in children and adolescents. Validation studies are needed to identify appropriate thresholds for each type of accelerometer.
Calibration; Motion; Motor activity; Validity of tests
