Does Perceived Safety Modify the Effectiveness of a Walking-Group Intervention Designed to Promote Physical Activity?

To examine whether perceived safety modified the effectiveness of the Walk Your Heart to Health (WYHH) intervention in promoting physical activity and reducing central adiposity in predominantly non-Latino black (henceforth black) and Latino communities.

Generalized estimation equations were used to assess modifying effects of perceived safety on the route and perceived neighborhood safety on (1) WYHH participation at 8 weeks and 32 weeks, (2) associations between participation and physical activity, and (3) associations between physical activity and central adiposity.

Community-based and faith-based organizations in black and Latino communities.

There were 603 adults, aged 18 years and older, who were predominantly black, Latino, and female.

Participation and physical activity (piezoelectric pedometer) were measured at each walking session. Perceived safety on the route (questionnaire), perceived neighborhood safety (questionnaire), and waist circumference were measured at baseline, 8 weeks, and 32 weeks.

Secondary analysis of repeated measures using generalized estimation equations.

Retention was 90% at 8 weeks and 64% at 32 weeks. Perceived safety on the route, but not perceived neighborhood safety, dampened participation at 8 weeks but not 32 weeks. Consistent participation in the intervention increased physical activity and reduced central adiposity irrespective of perceived safety on the walking route or perceived neighborhood safety.

Efforts to improve safety in conjunction with interventions focused on increasing physical activity can work toward improving physical activity for blacks and Latinos, leading to a myriad of improved health outcomes including reduced central adiposity.