The effect of an augmented commercial weight loss program on increasing physical activity and reducing psychological distress in women with overweight or obesity: a randomised controlled trial. Issue 2 (10th July 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Breslin, Gavin; Sweeney, Leeanne; Shannon, Stephen; Murphy, Marie; Hanna, Donncha; Meade, Mary; Armitage, Christopher J.
• Is Part Of: Journal of public mental health. Volume 19:Issue 2(2020)
• Page Start: 145
• Page End: 157
• Publication Date: 2019-07-10
• Subjects: Wellbeing -- Health -- Anxiety -- Physical activity -- Behaviour change -- Goal intentions; Mental health promotion -- Periodicals; 362.2
• DOI: 10.1108/JPMH-08-2018-0055
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1746-5729

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to test the effects of augmenting an evidence-based physical activity intervention within an existing commercial weight loss program to assess effects on increasing physical activity and reducing psychological distress. Design/methodology/approach: The CONSORT guidelines were adopted for the study. In total, 49 women with overweight or obesity ( M age=39.5, SD:12.4; M Body Mass Index=31.02, SD: 2.10) enrolled in a six week commercial weight loss program were randomized to an intervention or a control group. Participants in the control group received care as usual; participants in the intervention group additionally received an evidence-based intervention to increase physical activity that included behavior change techniques including implementation intentions, goal-setting and self-monitoring. Findings: Weekly steps increased in the intervention group ( M =31, 516.25; SD=9, 310.17 to M =62, 851.36; SD=13, 840.4) significantly more ( p <0.001, η p 2 =0.32) than in the control group ( M =30, 207.67; SD=7, 833.29) to M =46, 969.33 (SD=9, 470.96), along with experiencing significantly lower anxiety ( p <0.001, η p 2 =0.15), social dysfunction ( p <0.001, η p 2 =0.16) and depression symptoms ( p <0.05, η p 2 =0.08) at follow-up. Research limitations/implications: This intervention warrants extension to those seeking to improve mental health through physical activity. Originality/value: This study took a novel approach of augmenting a commercial weight loss program with a theory-based physical activity module, showing positive effects for physical activity behavior and psychological health.