E-technology and pedometer walking program to increase physical activity at work

Abstract

This study examined the application of the transtheoretical model (TTM) as a means to increase physical activity at the worksite through the introduction of a 10-week pedometer walking program combined with internet-based motivational messages. Participants (N = 206) were employees of two worksites who completed a health history questionnaire and assessment based on the TTM. There were significant improvements in the number of steps per week, level of physical activity, movement through stage of change and other health related indicators (p < 0.05). The worksite pedometer walking program and e-technology may be effective interventions in improving the lifestyle of employees who might be at risk for developing chronic diseases. Editors' Strategic Implications: Because walking is an inexpensive, easy, and convenient form of physical activity for many adults, implementation of this type of workplace program--with the important element of increasing individuals' awareness of risks--could be an effective approach to reduce cardiovascular risk factors and manage overweight and obesity in sedentary adults. Future research should compare this simple model with more individualized (but often more expensive) programs.