Print versus website physical activity programs: a randomized trial.
BACKGROUND
Mediated physical activity interventions can reach large numbers of people at low cost. Programs delivered through the mail that target the stage of motivational readiness have been shown to increase activity. Communication technology (websites and e-mail) might provide a means for delivering similar programs.


METHODS
Randomized trial conducted between August and October 2001. Participants included staff at an Australian university (n=655; mean age=43, standard deviation, 10 years). Participants were randomized to either an 8-week, stage-targeted print program (Print) or 8-week, stage-targeted website (Web) program. The main outcome was change in self-reported physical activity.


RESULTS
There was no significant increase in total reported physical activity within or between groups when analyzed by intention to treat (F [1,653]=0.41, p=0.52). There was a significant increase in total physical activity reported by the Print participants who were inactive at baseline (t [1,173]=-2.21, p=0.04), and a significant decrease in the average time spent sitting on a weekday in the Web group (t [1,326]=2.2, p=0.03).


CONCLUSIONS
There were no differences between the Print and Web program effects on reported physical activity. The Print group demonstrated slightly larger effects and a higher level of recognition of program materials.
Marshall
Alison L
AL
School of Human Movement Studies, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland 4071, Australia. alisonm@hms.uq.edu.au
Leslie
Eva R
ER
Bauman
Adrian E
AE
Marcus
Bess H
BH
Owen
Neville
N
D000328:Adult; D001294:Attitude to Health; D001315:Australia; D015709:Correspondence as Topic; D034742:Electronic Mail; D015444:Exercise; D005260:Female; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016272:Occupational Health; D010174:Pamphlets; D017132:Workplace