Introduction:

Epidemiological studies about non-communicable diseases in Cuba require techniques that determine physical activity levels in a practical, valid, reliable and cost-effective manner.

Objective:

Characterize the techniques that measure the level of physical activity of questionnaires validated by movement sensors and that are applicable in the Cuban population.

Methods:

A search was conducted in the databases PubMed, Cochrane, LILACS and SciELO, using the descriptors physical activity, physical activity / measurement techniques, physical activity / questionnaire, physical inactivity and non-communicable diseases. The documents consulted had been published in the period 2014-2019.

Data analysis and integration:

A total 66 articles were identified, of which 36 were selected that contributed to the final result. A description was performed of the most relevant characteristics of each technique, as well as the similarities and differences between them. Determination was made of the appropriate technique to be used, based on criteria issued by article authors and referred authors.

Conclusions:

Pedometers and the short International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) were selected as the techniques to be used to measure physical activity levels in the Cuban population.

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