Physical Activity Level Is Associated With Maintaining Anthropometric Improvements Among Participants in a Worksite Wellness Program

• Published in: American journal of lifestyle medicine Vol. 11; no. 6; pp. 489 - 500
• Main Authors: Wanik, Jillian A., Marcus, Andrea F., Radler, Diane R., Byham-Gray, Laura D., Touger-Decker, Riva
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Los Angeles, CA SAGE Publications 01.11.2017
• Subjects: Original Research; health behavior; health promotion; overweight; obesity
• ISSN: 1559-8276; 1559-8284
• DOI: 10.1177/1559827615624420

Background. Physical activity (PA) can facilitate weight loss, help avoid weight regain, and improve body composition. This study examined the relationships between PA level and changes in anthropometric measures among university employees in a worksite wellness program. Methods. A registered dietitian provided individualized assessments at baseline followed by a 12-week education intervention with follow-up at 12 and 26 weeks. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire–Short Form was used to calculate PA ≤150 or ≥150 min/wk, median min/wk, and metabolic equivalent of task (MET) min/wk at each time point. Repeated-measures general linear model and nonparametric tests were used to assess significant differences over time. Results. Of the 64 participants, 89% were women and 50% were non-Hispanic white. At 12 and 26 weeks, participants experienced significant decreases in weight (P = .001). Among women, waist circumference and abdominal obesity decreased significantly (P < .01). PA ≥150 min/wk (n = 21) was associated with continued weight loss (P = .03) and decreases in body fat percentage (P = .02) between 12 and 26 weeks whereas PA ≤150 min/wk was associated with weight and body fat percentage regain during the same time period. Conclusion. Among women in a worksite wellness program, higher levels of PA were associated with avoiding weight and body fat regain following successful loss.