Caloric Expenditure Estimation Differences between an Elliptical Machine and Indirect Calorimetry

Objectives: Many people are interested in tracking caloric intake and expenditure for weight management purposes.It is difficult to accurately track exercise expenditure, and people may rely on the information reported by exercise equipment as it is easily available.This study examined the caloric estimation differences between the algorithm used by an elliptical machine and an indirect calorimetry device.Methods: Participants were 34 adults with 20 females (25 ± 8.47 years; 1.64 ± 0.08 m, 62.37 ± 10.81 kg) and 14 males (25.07 ± 5.46 years; 1.75 ± 0.06 m, 84.02 ± 12.33 kg).The caloric expenditure information from each device was compared to examine difference overall, in 5 minute intervals, and between males and females.Results: There was a significant difference in overall caloric expenditure (t 33 = 22.27, p < .001).The difference in caloric expenditure estimation methods was not significantly different for males and females (t 32 = 2.01, p = .05).Conclusions: Elliptical machines appear to overestimate caloric expenditure by a large number of calories.As is often stated, caution should be used when relying on exercise equipment for caloric expenditure information.Based on this data, individuals should expect caloric expenditure to be overestimated by approximately 100 calories each 30 min of exercise performed on elliptical equipment at moderate intensity.