Pressler JM, Heiss DG, Buford JA; The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA. Presslj@ucmail.uc.edu.

PURPOSE: Percent body fat has been correlated with the three components [sport (r = -0.350), work (r = -0.170), and leisure (r = -0.390)] of the original Habitual Physical Activity Questionnaire (HPAQ). Our purpose was to validate a modified version of the HPAQ (MHPAQ) by comparing the correlations between the MHPAQ and percent body fat with the previously reported data. SUBJECTS: 28 young, healthy, female subjects aged 17 to 30 (23 ± 2 yrs, 63.1 ± 9.2 kg, 1.63 ± 0.06 m) from a sample of convenience participated. METHODS: Language in the HPAQ was modified to use terms more typical for Americans. Each participant then completed the MHPAQ. The questionnaire required 16 responses based on physical activity during work, sport, and leisure. A score was then calculated for each of these three components of the questionnaire. Percent body fat was assessed via bioelectric impedance analysis using a RJL Quantum X BIA unit. All subjects adhered to strict guidelines for the 48 hours prior to assessment. ANALYSIS: Bivariate Spearman Rho correlations were calculated using SPSS. RESULTS: The correlations between the HPAQ and percent body fat measured via hydrostatic weighing [sport (r = -0.350), work (r = -0.170), and leisure (r = -0.390)] were similar to the MHPAQ and BIA [sport (r =-0.358), work (r = -0.120), and leisure (r = -0.520)]. CONCLUSION: The language modifications did not affect the validity of the HPAQ based on the similarity in correlations found in this study with existing research. Increased habitual activity was associated with less percent body fat. The MHPAQ can be utilized to quantify the habitual physical activity of clients during work, sport, and leisure. Clinically, therapists will have an inexpensive, objective way to assess and monitor progress toward goals of modifying habitual physical activity. FUNDING SOURCE: The Rosita Schiller Research Award.

Copyright 2004 by the American Physical Therapy Association

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