Move & Improve: A Worksite Wellness Program in Maine
Author Information
Author(s): Polacsek Michele, O’Brien Liam M, Lagasse Wendie, Hammar Nicole
Primary Institution: Maine–Harvard Prevention Research Center
Hypothesis
Does the Move & Improve program effectively increase physical activity and improve lifestyle factors among participants?
Conclusion
The Move & Improve program significantly improved participants' physical activity levels and lifestyle factors.
Supporting Evidence
- 41% of participants reported weight loss in 2003, increasing to 62% in 2004.
- 54% reported increased energy levels in 2003, which rose to 62% in 2004.
- 40% increased fruit and vegetable consumption in 2003, compared to 50% in 2004.
- 33% decreased fat intake in 2003, increasing to 45% in 2004.
- 37% decreased television viewing in 2003, with 40% doing so in 2004.
- 20% reduced soft drink consumption in 2003, rising to 30% in 2004.
- 33% reported decreased stress in 2003, increasing to 36% in 2004.
- 55% increased water intake in 2003, which rose to 60% in 2004.
Takeaway
This study shows that a program helping people exercise more can make them healthier and happier.
Methodology
The evaluation used a cross-sectional study design with nonparticipant comparison groups and community-based participatory research methods.
Potential Biases
Participants were self-selected, which may not represent the general worksite population.
Limitations
Limitations include self-selection of participants, a cross-sectional study design, and resource constraints.
Participant Demographics
Participants were predominantly female (75-87%) and mostly aged 45-54 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
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