Effects of a lifestyle physical activity intervention in a worksite environment

Strong evidence favors the health benefits of a physically active lifestyle. The worksite is an ideal way to educate the general population on the important health benefits associated with physical activity. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of Active Living Every Day (ALED) on physical activity patterns in a CSX railroad dispatch center. A quasi-experimental intervention (ALED, n=29) and control (control, n=24) design was utilized. Intervention subjects participated in a 20-week course to address physical activity determinants, which included identifying and overcoming barriers, setting attainable goals, and creating social support networks, while the control group was exposed to the traditional employee wellness program. Accelerometers were used to estimate physical activity. Stages of Change was used to categorize self-reported stage. Data was collected on all subjects at baseline and at the conclusion of the intervention. No significant group difference was found for time spent doing light to moderate physically activity. The intervention group significantly progressed through the stages of change relative to the control group (x2 = 10.96, p = < 0.05). Forty-three percent of the ALED participants shifted from inactive to active compared to 1% of the control group. Evaluating the success of the intervention entirely on physical activity counts may not be effective for understanding the true success of the program. Significant self-reported stage progression represents intention and behavior change. Future workplace interventions should explore alternative physical activity assessment measures and outcomes to better define physical activity behavior change. (Partially funded by CSX Transportation)