Changes in physical activity and sedentary behavior in a randomized trial of an internet-based versus workbook-based family intervention study.
BACKGROUND
The America on the Move (AOM) Family Intervention Program has been shown to prevent excess weight gain in overweight children. Providing intervention materials via the internet would have the potential to reach more families but may increase sedentary behavior. The purpose was to evaluate whether delivering the AOM Family Intervention via the internet versus printed workbook would have a similar impact on sedentary behaviors in children.


METHODS
131 children (age 8-12) were randomized to receive the AOM Family Intervention via the internet or workbook for 12 weeks. Changes in objectively measured sedentary time and moderate-to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) as well as self-reported screen time were compared between groups.


RESULTS
There were no significant differences between groups in screen time, sedentary time, or MVPA at the end of the 12 week intervention. Families receiving the intervention via the internet were more likely to remain in the study (98% vs. 82%, P = .016).


CONCLUSIONS
Using the internet to deliver the lifestyle intervention did not increase sedentary behavior in children. Attrition rates were lower when the program was delivered by internet versus via printed materials. These results provide support for using the internet to deliver healthy lifestyle programs for children.
Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes, University of Colorado-Denver.
Victoria A
VA
Catenacci
Christopher
C
Barrett
Lorraine
L
Odgen
Ray
R
Browning
Christine Adele
CA
Schaefer
James
J
Hill
Holly
H
Wyatt
D061725:Accelerometry; D002648:Child; D003194:Computer-Assisted Instruction / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D003376:Counseling; D015444:Exercise; D005190:Family; D005260:Female; D015438:Health Behavior; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D008297:Male; D009043:Motor Activity; D009765:Obesity / Q000517:prevention & control; D010043:Outcome and Process Assessment, Health Care; D057185:Sedentary Behavior; D013690:Television / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D061217:Weight Reduction Programs