ABSTRACT
This brief overview includes a historical review of the methods used for measuring energy expenditure. For this overview, the ‘gold standard’ method of measuring energy expenditure (EE), the doubly-labelled water technique, is emphasised. Other methods, such as direct calorimetry, indirect calorimetry systems, heart rate and energy expenditure relationships, questionnaires and activity recall, work-rate analysis, motion sensors, combined heart rate and motion sensors for the estimation of EE are then highlighted in relation to their validation against the doubly-labelled water method. The major advantages and disadvantages of each method are then considered. Finally, recommendations are made for the most useful practical measurement tool, after consideration of factors such as the type and duration of activity, expense, and sample size.
