Evaluating the effectiveness of implementation intentions in a pedometer worksite intervention.

Area of Science:

• Behavioral Science
• Occupational Health
• Public Health Interventions

Background:

• Pedometer interventions effectively increase physical activity (PA) but face adherence challenges.
• Worksite wellness programs aim to promote employee health and productivity.
• Self-regulatory skills are crucial for sustained behavior change.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of Implementation Intentions (II) combined with pedometer self-monitoring for initiating PA.
• To assess the impact of II on adherence to a worksite wellness intervention.
• To compare the effectiveness of pedometers alone versus pedometers with II on PA.

Main Methods:

• An 8-week randomized trial involving 54 university employees.
• Two groups: pedometers only (PED) and pedometers with Implementation Intentions (PED+II).
• Physical activity measured by daily step counts.

Main Results:

• Significant increases in daily steps were observed over time (p < .0001).
• The PED+II group showed greater step increases during the intervention period.
• A significant decrease in steps occurred from intervention end to delayed post-assessment in both groups.

Conclusions:

• Implementation Intentions (II) show promise for initiating physical activity behavior change in worksite settings.
• Sustaining physical activity gains post-intervention remains a significant challenge.
• Future research should explore strategies for long-term adherence in wellness programs.