Accuracy of self-reported physical activity as an indicator of cardiovascular fitness depends on education level.

Objective: To determine whether there is a relationship between the level of education and the accuracy of self-reported physical activity as a proxy measure of aerobic fitness.

Design: Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination from the years 1999 to 2004 were used. Linear regression was performed for measured maximum oxygen consumption (Vo(2)max) versus self-reported physical activity for 5 different levels of education.

Setting: This was a national survey in the United States.

Participants: Participants included adults from the general U.S. population (N=3290).

Interventions: None.

Main Outcome Measure: Coefficients of determination obtained from models for each education level were used to compare how well self-reported physical activity represents cardiovascular fitness. These coefficients were the main outcome measure.

Results: Coefficients of determination for Vo(2)max versus reported physical activity increased as the level of education increased.

Conclusions: In this preliminary study, self-reported physical activity is a better proxy measure for aerobic fitness in highly educated individuals than in poorly educated individuals.