The efficacy of stage-matched and standard public health materials for promoting physical activity in the workplace: the Physical Activity Workplace Study (PAWS).
OBJECTIVE
To compare the effects of stage-matched and standard print materials for physical activity (PA) change.


METHODS
Participants were randomized into (1) a stage-matched intervention group (n = 165), (2) a standard intervention group (n = 176), or (3) a no-contact control group (n = 166). The stage-matched and standard intervention groups both received materials at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. Assessments of all three groups were conducted at baseline, 6, and 12 months.


METHODS
Canadian worksites.


METHODS
Employees (N = 507).


METHODS
Five motivationally targeted booklets were developed for the stage-matched group. The standard group received Canada's Physical Activity Guide and handbook.


METHODS
The main dependent variable was PA, expressed as metabolic equivalent (MET) minutes and measured using the Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire. Demographic characteristics and stages of change for PA were also assessed.


RESULTS
At 12 months mean weekly MET minutes for combined moderate and vigorous activity increased from baseline by 223, 67, and 78 for the stage-matched, standard, and control groups, respectively; however, differences were not significant (p > .05). Women in the stage-matched group over the 12-month period significantly increased their activity by 327 weekly MET minutes whereas the standard and control groups declined their activity (F = 3.01, p < .05).


CONCLUSIONS
PA stage-matched materials delivered in the workplace are efficacious for women but not men. Future interventions should explore the use of these intervention materials in conjunction with multilevel strategies, and particular attention should be paid to possible gender differences.
University of Alberta, Canada. ron.plotnikoff@ualberta.ca
Ronald C
RC
Plotnikoff
Stephanie
S
Brunet
Kerry S
KS
Courneya
John C
JC
Spence
Nicholas J
NJ
Birkett
Bess
B
Marcus
Jessica
J
Whiteley
D000328:Adult; D002170:Canada; D005260:Female; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008960:Models, Psychological; D009786:Occupational Health Services / Q000379:methods*; D010174:Pamphlets; D010809:Physical Fitness; D015980:Public Health Practice; D012737:Sex Factors; D017132:Workplace