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. 2013 Oct 28:1:45.
doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2013.00045. eCollection 2013.

A hybrid online intervention for reducing sedentary behavior in obese women

Melanie M Adams  1 , Paul G Davis  2 , Diane L Gill  2
Affiliations

A hybrid online intervention for reducing sedentary behavior in obese women

Melanie M Adams et al. Front Public Health. .

Abstract

Sedentary behavior (SB) has emerged as an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. While exercise is known to reduce these risks, reducing SB through increases in non-structured PA and breaks from sitting may appeal to obese women who have lower self-efficacy for PA. This study examined effects of a combined face-to-face and online intervention to reduce SB in overweight and obese women. A two-group quasi-experimental study was used with measures taken pre and post. Female volunteers (M age = 58.5, SD = 12.5 years) were enrolled in the intervention (n = 40) or waitlisted (n = 24). The intervention, based on the Social Cognitive Theory, combined group sessions with email messages over 6 weeks. Individualized feedback to support mastery and peer models of active behaviors were included in the emails. Participants self-monitored PA with a pedometer. Baseline and post measures of PA and SB were assessed by accelerometer and self-report. Standard measures of height, weight, and waist circumference were conducted. Repeated measures ANOVA was used for analyses. Self-reported SB and light PA in the intervention group (I) changed significantly over time [SB, F(1, 2) = 3.81, p = 0.03, light PA, F(1, 2) = 3.39, p = 0.04]. Significant Group × Time interactions were found for light PA, F(1, 63) = 5.22, p = 0.03, moderate PA, F(1, 63) = 3.90, p = 0.05, and for waist circumference, F(1, 63) = 16.0, p = 0.001. The intervention group decreased significantly while the comparison group was unchanged. Hybrid computer interventions to reduce SB may provide a non-exercise alternative for increasing daily PA and potentially reduce waist circumference, a risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Consumer-grade accelerometers may aide improvements to PA and SB and should be tested as part of future interventions.

Keywords: accelerometer; computer; inactivity; physical activity; waist circumference.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Self-reported sedentary behavior. *Pre post change in group, p = 0.004.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Self-reported moderate physical activity. *Group difference, p = 0.03.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Intervention pedometer steps. *Significant increase from baseline.
Figure 4
Figure 4
Waist circumference. *Pre post change in I group, p = 0.001.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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