Motivating ourselves via exercise and nutrition (MOVEN): A community-based healthy living initiative

Background

Latino children and adults are at particular risk for obesity and its co-morbidities. Establishing healthy eating behaviors and increasing physical activity are necessary primary steps for preventing obesity.

Method

MOVEN is a community-based project being conducted collaboratively by Rutgers University, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, and Lazos America Unida, a community-based organization. This project aims to inspire lifestyle changes in both diet and physical activity among Latino families to prevent obesity.

Program participants are Latino children (8-12 yr) and their guardians living in New Brunswick, New Jersey. Program involves 16 bi-weekly sessions that are held at a local school (Greater New Brunswick Charter School). Each session (1.5 hours) includes an interactive lesson about culturally appropriate healthy eating (e.g., variety, portion sizes, healthier options when cooking, eating out), and physical activities for ½-hour. The curriculum incorporates personalized knowledge- and skill-building activities, setting personal goals, observational learning, reinforcement, and social support provided by peers and the implementation team. The program is delivered by medical school and nutritional science students with the help of peer health advisors (promotoras) from the community.

Participants' progress and outcomes are evaluated through qualitative feedback, and quantitative pre- and post-tests that measure nutrition knowledge, food intake behaviors, self efficacy, physical activity, weight, height, and socioeconomic characteristics.

Results

MOVEN is expected to reach about 60 Latino children and their guardians this year. A promotora network has been initiated to continue this effort going forward and to sustain the program.