Actometers

An actometer is a device used to measure activity levels. Typically, actometers are small, wearable electronic sensors that record movement. These devices work by detecting acceleration and changes in position. The data collected can then be analyzed to understand patterns of movement over time. Actometers are commonly used in scientific research, particularly in fields such as animal behavior, sleep studies, and physical activity monitoring in humans. In animal research, they can track foraging, locomotion, and general activity in a non-invasive way. For humans, actometers can help assess the effectiveness of exercise interventions, monitor daily physical activity, or study sleep-wake cycles. The data from an actometer is usually displayed as an activity index or a count of movement units. The size and design of actometers vary depending on their intended application, with some being very small and unobtrusive for long-term monitoring.