Adherence
A technology-enhanced physical activity intervention combining small group sessions, wearable activity trackers, and SMS messaging significantly increases self-reported physical activity and improves metabolic health markers (HDL, body fat) in overweight/obese African American men.
For overweight or obese African American men, a structured 10-week program combining weekly group workouts with a trainer, daily activity tracking via a wearable device, and weekly motivational text messages can significantly increase physical activity and improve metabolic health. The social aspect of the group and the accountability of the technology are key drivers of success.
The intervention resulted in significant increases in men’s self-reported levels of light, moderate, vigorous, and sports-related physical activities, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, and significant decreases in weight and body fat percentage with small, moderate and large effects shown.
Why this rating
Quasi-experimental pilot study with a small sample size (n=40) and no control group.
Source
Men on the Move–Nashville: Feasibility and Acceptability of a Technology-Enhanced Physical Activity Pilot Intervention for Overweight and Obese Middle and Older Age African American Men
Donnatesa A. L. Dean et al. · American Journal of Men s Health · 2016
DOI 10.1177/1557988316644174
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