Observational (cross-sectional and longitudinal) studies

The chapter explores observational studies and their application in physical activity research with a particular focus on cross-sectional and longitudinal approaches. Considerations in the design and use of both types of studies are considered and the chapter concludes with a case study which utilized both a cross-sectional and longitudinal observational study design. The aims of the chapter are to: 1 Provide an understanding of observational studies with a specific focus on crosssectional and longitudinal designs. 2 Demonstrate how cross-sectional and longitudinal observational studies are used in physical activity research. 3 Provide guidance and considerations on how to design and undertake crosssectional and longitudinal observational studies to ensure the collection of high quality data. 4 Provide illustrative examples using a case study of a longitudinal and crosssectional observational study.