Texting to Increase Adolescent Physical Activity: Feasibility Assessment

Area of Science:

• Behavioral Science
• Public Health
• Adolescent Health

Background:

• Feasibility trials are crucial for evaluating behavior change programs before large-scale implementation.
• Adolescent physical activity is a significant public health concern, necessitating effective interventions.
• Self-Determination Theory provides a framework for understanding motivation in behavior change.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and acceptability of a multi-component intervention to increase physical activity in adolescents.
• To evaluate the additive effects of Self Determination Theory-informed text messages, pedometers, and goal prompts.
• To examine changes in objectively measured physical activity and participant reactions.

Main Methods:

• A 4-group randomized controlled trial with 160 adolescents (aged 14-15 years).
• Intervention components included pedometers, goal prompts, and theory-informed text messages, with a no-treatment control group.
• Primary outcome was feasibility; secondary outcomes included changes in step counts and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) measured by ActiGraph.

Main Results:

• Feasibility criteria were met, with a low attrition rate (<2%).
• Modest increases in daily step counts and MVPA were observed across intervention groups compared to the control.
• Participants reported positive reactions to the intervention components.

Conclusions:

• A combined intervention of pedometers, theory-informed texts, and goal prompts is feasible and acceptable for promoting adolescent physical activity.
• The findings support the potential of this intervention for future efficacy trials.
• This approach offers a promising strategy for public health initiatives targeting youth physical activity.