Validity and applicability of a simple questionnaire for the estimation of total and domain-specific physical activity

Purpose We developed and evaluated a simple, robust and valid self-administered questionnaire for the estimation of physical activity (PA). Here, we examined the validity of this questionnaire in subjects with differing sex, ages, occupations and living circumstances. Methods The questionnaire consists of four domains, namely occupational activity, including housekeeping and commuting; leisure time activity; sleeping; and other activities. It was validated with 8-day, 24-h physical activity records (24 h-R) as the gold standard in 110 volunteers. Results Total PA estimated by the questionnaire and the 24 h-R showed a moderately strong correlation (r = 0.69). Correlations between total PA by the PAQ and the 24 h-R for various subgroups, such as sex, age, area, occupation and BMI, were moderate to strong (0.55-0.80). Validity of domain-specific PA calculated by the questionnaire was also moderate to high. Conclusion This simple questionnaire produces valid estimates of total and domain-specific PA and can be applied to a broad population.