Global Physical Activity Questionnaire

Definition

The Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) is a tool designed to assess physical activity levels across different domains, such as work, travel, and recreational activities. It helps gather information on the amount and intensity of physical activity performed by individuals, making it an essential instrument for public health research and intervention strategies focused on promoting physical activity and understanding its impact on health outcomes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The GPAQ collects data on physical activity in three key areas: work-related activity, travel-related activity, and leisure-time activity.
2. It includes questions that capture both moderate and vigorous intensity activities to provide a comprehensive overview of an individual's physical activity patterns.
3. GPAQ is widely used in various countries and regions, providing a standardized approach for researchers and health practitioners to assess physical activity levels globally.
4. The questionnaire can be self-administered or conducted through interviews, making it versatile for different populations and settings.
5. Data gathered from GPAQ can inform public health policies and interventions aimed at increasing physical activity among populations at risk for chronic diseases.

Review Questions

• How does the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire evaluate different types of physical activities?
  • The Global Physical Activity Questionnaire evaluates different types of physical activities by categorizing them into three primary domains: work-related activities, travel-related activities, and leisure-time activities. Each domain has specific questions that assess both the frequency and intensity of activities performed. This comprehensive approach allows for a better understanding of how individuals incorporate physical activity into their daily lives across various contexts.
• Discuss the advantages of using the GPAQ in public health research compared to other physical activity assessment tools.
  • Using the GPAQ in public health research offers several advantages compared to other assessment tools. First, it provides a standardized method for collecting data on physical activity levels across diverse populations, which enhances comparability between studies. Second, the GPAQ captures different domains of activity, allowing researchers to identify trends and patterns in how people engage in physical activity. Lastly, it is adaptable for both self-administration and interviews, making it accessible for various demographic groups.
• Evaluate the role of the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire in addressing global health issues related to sedentary lifestyles.
  • The Global Physical Activity Questionnaire plays a crucial role in addressing global health issues related to sedentary lifestyles by providing reliable data on population-level physical activity patterns. This information is vital for identifying at-risk groups who may benefit from targeted interventions aimed at increasing physical activity. By highlighting trends in sedentary behavior and low activity levels, the GPAQ helps policymakers develop effective strategies and programs to encourage active living and combat the rising prevalence of lifestyle-related chronic diseases worldwide.

Related terms

Physical Activity Level (PAL): A measure that represents the total daily energy expenditure of an individual relative to their basal metabolic rate, used to categorize overall physical activity.

MET (Metabolic Equivalent of Task): A unit used to estimate the metabolic cost of physical activities; 1 MET is defined as the energy expenditure at rest.

Sedentary Behavior: Any waking behavior characterized by an energy expenditure of 1.5 METs or less, commonly associated with prolonged sitting or lying down.