Some methods to evaluate the energy balance on physical activity

Energy balance has been evaluated by the use of the energy expenditure measure and the application of some methods, which result precise and reliable. In a six months study we have determined the energy balance and compared it with the caloric intake and the anthropometric data. The study was carried out on 8 subjects of female sex (age 21.5+/-1.5). 1) Energy expenditure was assessed by a) intake/balance methods; b) factorial method; c) factorial method based on the body weight. 2) Each month caloric intake was determined for one week. 3) Anthropometric values were measured using plicometry. The results obtained show that the reliability of the methods used is correlated with the anthropometric data and physical activity. In particular, regarding the last factor, it seems important to discriminate between discretionary and occupational activities.