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Promoting physical activity among sedentary women using pedometers
Cara L Sidman1, Charles B Corbin, Guy Le Masurier
1School of Kinesiology and Recreation Studies, James Madison University, Harrisonburg, VA 22807, USA. sidmancl@jmu.edu
Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport
|June 24, 2004
Summary
Sedentary women with low baseline step counts are less likely to achieve a 10,000-step goal (TSG). However, a TSG does not decrease overall step counts compared to a personal step goal (PSG).
Area of Science:
- Exercise Science
- Behavioral Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Sedentary lifestyles contribute to chronic diseases.
- Step-based goals are a common public health intervention.
- Individualizing step goals may influence adherence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare goal attainment and step counts between a 10,000-step goal (TSG) and a personal step goal (PSG).
- To investigate if baseline step count influences the likelihood of meeting a TSG.
Main Methods:
- 92 sedentary women were categorized into low, medium, and high baseline step count groups.
- Participants were assigned to either a TSG or PSG condition.
- Goal attainment and daily step counts were analyzed.
Main Results:
- A significant interaction revealed that women with low baseline steps were less likely to meet the TSG.
- Step counts increased in all groups post-goal assignment.
- No significant difference in step count increase was observed between TSG and PSG groups.
Conclusions:
- A standardized 10,000-step goal may be less effective for individuals with very low baseline activity levels.
- While goal attainment differs, a TSG does not appear to reduce overall physical activity compared to a personalized goal.