Does having a buddy help women with young children increase physical activity? Lessons learned from a pilot study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Behavioral Science
• Exercise Science

Background:

• Physical activity (PA) is crucial for maternal health.
• Social support can influence health behaviors.
• Existing PA interventions for mothers need further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a 12-week physical activity (PA) buddy program for women with young children.
• To assess the impact of a PA buddy program on daily step counts and social support.

Main Methods:

• A pilot controlled trial involving 49 women with young children.
• Randomization into a PA buddy intervention group or a control group.
• Both groups received accelerometers, mobile apps, and weekly step goals; the intervention group included weekly exercise with a buddy.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in daily steps between the intervention and control groups.
• Women with active buddies showed significantly greater increases in daily steps compared to those with inactive buddies or controls.
• Active buddies were associated with higher friend social support scores for PA.

Conclusions:

• A PA buddy program alone may not significantly increase women's daily steps.
• Associating with active individuals is crucial for improving PA and social support in women.
• Future interventions should focus on creating social environments that promote physical activity.