The recommended location is to place the index and middle finger lightly on the radial pulse on the wrist. An individual may take their resting heart rate at the neck, wrist, or chest. Resting Heart Rate: The number of heart beats per minute (bpm) when the body is not engaged in physical activity. Setting target parameters for heart rate will assist an individual in meeting fitness goals. However, it is highly recommended to manually calculate metrics such as maximum heart rate or target heart prior to beginning an exercise regimen. Individuals may easily check their heart rate in “real-time” with the assistance of wearable technology. Note: Absolute intensity is determined by metabolic equivalent (MET) methodology.Ī common method of monitoring physical activity intensity is by calculating heart rate, and determining if the target heart rate zone has been reached Heart Rate: A common method of monitoring physical activity intensity is by calculating heart rate, and determining if the target heart rate zone has been reached.6 The equations below may be utilized to determine resting heart rate, maximum heart rate, and target heart rates for moderate-intensity and vigorous-intensity physical activity (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2015c American College of Sports Medicine, 2013). Intensity ratings are as follows: Sedentary, light intensity, moderate-intensity, vigorous intensity (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2015a).

Relative intensity may be determined by focusing on heart rate and breathing patterns while engaging in activity. Intensity: Refers to work or effort exerted to perform activity or exercise. Activity Monitor Data (i.e., Accelerometers)įield-Based Physical Activity Assessment Methods.Several frequently used field-based assessment methods include:Īssessment methods commonly used in research include: Often, measurement strategies differ dependent upon whether the environment is field-based (i.e., sport performance) or research-based. Various measurement strategies may be utilized when assessing your own level, or others’ level, of physical activity participation. Well controlled studies are needed to clarify the mental health benefits of exercise among various populations and to address directly processes underlying the benefits of exercise on mental health.Measuring physical activity and fitness is a vital step in better understanding one’s overall health. Several differing psychological and physiological mechanisms have been proposed to explain the effect of physical activity on mental health disorders. Excessive physical activity may lead to overtraining and generate psychological symptoms that mimic depression. Studies of older adults and adolescents with depression or anxiety have been limited, but physical activity appears beneficial to these populations as well. In general, acute anxiety responds better to exercise than chronic anxiety. Anxiety symptoms and panic disorder also improve with regular exercise, and beneficial effects appear to equal meditation or relaxation. However, habitual physical activity has not been shown to prevent the onset of depression.

Although people with depression tend to be less physically active than non-depressed individuals, increased aerobic exercise or strength training has been shown to reduce depressive symptoms significantly.

Physical activity may play an important role in the management of mild-to-moderate mental health diseases, especially depression and anxiety.