Comparative Effectiveness of Two Walking Interventions on Participation, Step Counts, and Health.

PURPOSE

To (1) compare the effects of two worksite-based walking interventions on employee participation rates; (2) compare average daily step counts between conditions, and; (3) examine the effects of increases in average daily step counts on biometric and psychologic outcomes.

DESIGN

We conducted a cluster-randomized trial in which six employer groups were randomly selected and randomly assigned to condition.

SETTING

Four manufacturing worksites and two office-based worksite served as the setting.

SUBJECTS

A total of 474 employees from six employer groups were included.

INTERVENTION

A standard walking program was compared to an enhanced program that included incentives, feedback, competitive challenges, and monthly wellness workshops.

MEASURES

Walking was measured by self-reported daily step counts. Survey measures and biometric screenings were administered at baseline and 3, 6, and 9 months after baseline.

ANALYSIS

Analysis used linear mixed models with repeated measures.

RESULTS

During 9 months, participants in the enhanced condition averaged 726 more steps per day compared with those in the standard condition (p < .001). A 1000-step increase in average daily steps was associated with significant weight loss for both men (-3.8 lbs.) and women (-2.1 lbs.), and reductions in body mass index (-0.41 men, -0.31 women). Higher step counts were also associated with improvements in mood, having more energy, and higher ratings of overall health.

CONCLUSIONS

An enhanced walking program significantly increases participation rates and daily step counts, which were associated with weight loss and reductions in body mass index.