"Moving and losing": A pilot study incorporating physical activity to decrease obesity in the pediatric population

Abstract

Objective: This study was developed as a pilot study to determine if targeted interventions regarding increasing physical activity level through the use of pedometers and fitness DVDs would result in a decrease in BMI in overweight or obese children.

Methods: 24 children aged 4-17 taking part in "Moving and Losing" were randomized to (1) Control Group; (2) Pedometer Group; (3) DVD Group; (4) Pedometer + DVD Group and asked to complete self-report physical activity logs at visit one and two. Baseline, midpoint, and endpoint weight, height, Body Mass Index (BMI) were measured for outcome variables.

Results: Almost half (42%) of participants turned in their activity logs and pedometers at midpoint, but at endpoint less than a quarter of participants turned in their pedometers and/or activity logs. BMI increased by 4.1% in the Control Group, 8.7% in the Pedometer Group, and 6.7% in the DVD Group. BMI decreased by 0.3% in the Pedometer + DVD Group.

Conclusion: The use of pedometers and fitness DVDs may not be culturally acceptable in African-American female children and adolescents from South Carolina who are overweight or obese. Further studies should look into in-depth needs assessments and planning processes that include participants as stakeholders.