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CHANGES TO PHYSICAL ACTIVITY LEVELS WITH IMPLEMENTATION OF AN EMPLOYEE WELLNESS PROGRAM

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Employee wellness programs impact physical activity (PA) levels which can lead to increased overall activity and improved health. These programs provide a supportive framework for regular PA and motivate participants to engage in autonomous workouts. METHODS: University employees (N=23) participated in a 10-week wellness program. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) measured exercise volume in walking, moderate, vigorous, and total MVPA categories. Participants were grouped based on total volume: inactive (n=9; IA=/min/wk-1), minimally active (n=11; MA=600-3000 MET/min/wk-1 ), very active (n=3; VA=>3,000 MET/min/wk-1). Participants also responded to questions about exercise habits. Dependent t-tests analyzed changes within each group from pre- to post-test. RESULTS: Dependent t-tests revealed no significant difference within groups (p>.05). Moderate to large effects were seen in all groups. Crosstabs revealed 8 of 9 IA individuals moved to a higher PA category, as well as 7 of 11 MA participants. Two individuals (8.7%) reported they would not continue exercising autonomously. Lack of accountability or creation of a habit were cited as reasons. Two primary reasons for continuing exercise autonomously were enhanced exercise knowledge and creation of a routine. CONCLUSIONS: PA was most effectively increased in the MA group. Providing education to master exercise and creating an accountable routine are important for modifying PA behavior.

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