Specific effects of a calorie-based intervention on stair climbing in overweight commuters

Journal article

Background: Point-of-choice prompts consistently increase stair climbing; a greater increase in overweight than normal weight individuals was reported in a multi-component worksite campaign. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to investigate effects of a multi-component campaign, on stair climbing, in a public access setting. Methods: In an interrupted-time-series-design, baseline observations (2 weeks) preceded a 2-week point-of-choice prompt. An additional message, positioned at the top of the climb for a further 6-week period, summarised the calorific consequences of a single ascent. Inconspicuous observers recorded traveller's methods of ascent, coded by sex and weight status, twice a week between 08:00 and 09:59. Results: At baseline, the overweight chose stairs less than normal weight individuals. The multi-component campaign targeting weight control reversed this bias, increasing stair climbing only in overweight individuals. Conclusions: The specificity of the effect confirms the appeal of this lifestyle activity for the overweight. The discussion focuses on how intentions to control weight may be converted into behaviour. © 2011 The Society of Behavioral Medicine.

Authors: Lewis, A; Eves, F

• Journal: Annals of Behavioral Medicine
• Volume: 42
• Issue: 2
• Pages: 257-261
• Publication date: 2011-10-01
• DOI: 10.1007/s12160-011-9283-z
• EISSN: 1532-4796
• ISSN: 0883-6612
• Language: English
• Keywords: Obesity; Weight control; Intervention; Stair climbing; Physical activity; Built environment