Effectiveness of face-to-face versus telephone support in increasing physical activity and mental health among university employees.
BACKGROUND
Follow-up support increases the effectiveness of physical activity interventions. This study evaluates the effectiveness of 2 support modes on physical activity and mental health.


METHODS
University employees were randomly assigned to a coaching program with 4 face-to-face (N = 33) or telephone-based (N = 33) support contacts. Both programs included an initial face-to-face intake session and an informational brochure. Physical activity, trait anxiety, self-efficacy, and social support were measured by self-report before and after the interventions that lasted 3 months.


RESULTS
Both groups increased leisure-time physical activity, self-efficacy, and social support and decreased sitting time and trait anxiety. The only significant time by group interaction was found for active transportation. More specifically, participants in the face-to-face group reported a significant increase in their active transportation from pretest to posttest, whereas participants in the telephone group reported no significant change.


CONCLUSIONS
Both face-to-face support and telephone support proved to be effective in increasing the physical activity level and mental health of university employees.
Opdenacker
Joke
J
Department of Human Kinesiology, Faculty of Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Sciences, Katholicke Universiteit Leuven, Tervuursevest, Leuven, Belgium.
Boen
Filip
F
D000328:Adult; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D003376:Counseling; D015444:Exercise; D015438:Health Behavior; D006801:Humans; D007899:Leisure Activities; D008603:Mental Health; D008875:Middle Aged; D009042:Motivation; D009043:Motor Activity; D011581:Psychological Tests; D020377:Self Efficacy; D012944:Social Support; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013689:Telephone; D014495:Universities