Importance of Frequency, Intensity, Time and Type (FITT) in Physical Activity Assessment for Epidemiological Research

Abstract

Physical activity is a multi-faceted behaviour comprised of several components: frequency, intensity, time and type (FITT). Despite this understanding, there is currently a lack of knowledge regarding how the individual components of FITT influence chronic diseases. This is partly due to the tendency for researchers to focus on intensity via obtaining accurate measurements of energy expenditure. Although energy expenditure is an important consideration in the assessment of physical activity, it is only one component. Accordingly, future studies examining the association between physical activity and disease risk would benefit from examining all the components of FITT. Considering that all the components of FITT are modifiable, knowing their independent or combined influence on risk may provide valuable insight for future prevention interventions.

Changes in exercise capacity, quality of life and fatigue in cancer patients during an intervention

“…Recommendations for frequency (three to five times per week), intensity (moderate, heart‐rate controlled), time (60–240 min) and type of exercise (hiking, walking, running, bicycle and/or swimming) followed the FITT principle (Barisic et al . ). According to validated general lactate threshold assumptions (Faude et al .…”

“…Following the initial examination, patients were counselled how to exercise adapted to their disease status and treatment. Recommendations for frequency (three to five times per week), intensity (moderate, heart-rate controlled), time (60-240 min) and type of exercise (hiking, walking, running, bicycle and/or swimming) followed the FITT principle (Barisic et al 2011). According to validated general lactate threshold assumptions (Faude et al 2009) moderate exercise intensity was 70-90% of individual anaerobic threshold (IAT) derived from the CPET and RPE (rates of perceived exertion) target score of 13-14 on the Borg (6-20) scale.…”

“…To monitor home training compliance, all subjects were asked to fill in an exercise log in accordance to the physical activity assessment components of FITT (Barisic et al 2011). All patients had to attend a second exercise counselling session after 4 weeks to adjust their home-based exercise to their condition, side-effect status and exercise readiness.…”

The impact of physical activity on fatigue and quality of life during and after adjuvant treatment for breast cancer

“…PA is a multidimensional and complex behavior that is subject to change over time. Four components often described for PA are frequency, intensity, time, and type . Even if PA has a positive impact on fatigue and QoL, not all PA components may have equal impact.…”

“…Four components often described for PA are frequency, intensity, time, and type. 15 Even if PA has a positive impact on fatigue and QoL, not all PA components may have equal impact. Analyzing the impact of PA on fatigue and QoL requires accounting for the complexity and evolution of PA over time.…”