Observation of Step-Count Patterns of Women Participating in a Healthy Lifestyle Book Club Intervention
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
Fall 2011
Abstract
This study has two purposes: (1) to observe the step-count patterns of adult women who participated in an eight-month healthy lifestyle-based book club intervention and (2) to describe step-count patterns across seasons and body mass index (BMI) categories. Sixty-two participants (mean age ± SD = 53 ± 9, 92% Caucasians) had complete pedometer data, which was used for data analysis. After weekly, hour-long, discussion-based meetings during months one through four, and bi-monthly meetings during months five through eight, women increased their step counts by 26%. Significant step-count differences were observed among seasons (p < .05), and from pre- to post-intervention (p < .05), with the lowest steps being reported in the fall and the highest in the spring. Women in the obese category continued to increase steps during the winter, while the healthy-weight group decreased steps. There was a significant correlation between the average steps taken during the intervention and changes in BMI from pre- to post-intervention (r = -.26, p < .05). Overall, positive step-count pattern observations were found among adult women participating in a healthy lifestyle-based intervention.
Publication Information
Sidman, Cara L.; Huberty, Jennifer L.; and Gao, Yong. (2011). "Observation of Step-Count Patterns of Women Participating in a Healthy Lifestyle Book Club Intervention". Women in Sport and Physical Activity Journal, 20(2), 51-64.