Accelerometry Reporting Guidance

Accelerometry has become the preferred method for objective assessment of human behaviour, and the use of accelerometry in research has exploded over recent years. The complexity of data collected, and lack of agreement on the best way to use accelerometers means that consistent and transparent reporting of data collection, processing and analysis methodology is vital. Our study aims to strengthen the reporting of accelerometer-based measures of human behaviour (e.g. physical activity, sedentary time, sleep) in randomised controlled trials, trial protocols, and observational epidemiologic studies, by the development and implementation of extensions to the widely used CONSORT, STROBE and SPIRIT statements.

The guidance is being developed through activities which include:

  • A systematic review of current reporting guidance
  • An audit of current reporting practice
  • A web-based Delphi exercise to identify expert consensus on the key items that should be reported when accelerometry is used in research to measure health behaviours
  • A consensus workshop and pilot exercise to refine the checklist items
  • Widespread dissemination of the checklists and publications.

This project is core funded.

MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit logo 800 wide