Physical Activity and Cardiovascular Fitness Data Structure and Content

Purpose

This module describes how the NHANES physical activity and cardiovascular fitness data are structured and organized within the NHANES framework.

 

Task 1: Describe How the Physical Activity and Cardiovascular Fitness Data Fit into the NHANES Structure

Before you begin a search for variables specific to physical activity and cardiovascular fitness, you must first understand how the NHANES data files are structured and where the physical activity and cardiovascular fitness files fit in. 

• Key Concepts about How the Physical Activity and Cardiovascular Fitness Data Fit into the NHANES Structure

 

Task 2: Describe the Physical Activity Questionnaire Data Files

The physical activity questionnaire data are stored in two Questionnaire files: PAQ and PAQIAF. Physical activity questionnaires are administered through household and Mobile Examination Center (MEC) interviews.

• Key Concepts about the Physical Activity Questionnaire Data Files

 

Task 3: Describe the Cardiovascular Fitness Data Files

Estimated maximal oxygen uptake values are found in the CVX Examination file. Cardiovascular fitness data are collected during the submaximal treadmill test at the MEC.

• Key Concepts about the Cardiovascular Fitness Data Files

 

Task 4: Describe the Physical Activity Monitor Data Files

Physical Activity Monitor data are stored in the PAXRAW Examination file. These data provide sequential minute-by-minute records of activity intensity starting from the time the device began recording.

• Key Concepts about the Physical Activity Monitor Data Files