A formative evaluation of a family-based walking intervention-Furness Families Walk4Life
2011

Family-Based Walking Intervention Evaluation

Sample size: 114 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Karen Milton, Kelly Paul, Fiona Bull, Charlie Foster

Primary Institution: Loughborough University

Hypothesis

What factors contribute to the success of a family-based walking intervention?

Conclusion

The study identified key characteristics that contribute to the success of walking interventions for families, emphasizing the importance of social interaction and structured activities.

Supporting Evidence

  • Participants reported that social interaction was a key motivator for joining the walking program.
  • Walking in groups helped parents feel more confident about managing their children.
  • The program successfully engaged families through a combination of led walks and tailored resources.

Takeaway

This study shows that walking together as a family can be fun and helps parents feel more confident, especially when they have support from other families.

Methodology

The study involved qualitative interviews and focus groups with participants and program staff to evaluate the walking intervention.

Potential Biases

Self-selection bias may have influenced the results as only those willing to participate were included.

Limitations

The study had a low male participation rate and all participants were White British, limiting generalizability.

Participant Demographics

Participants included 36 adults, 10 adolescents, and 68 children, predominantly female and White British.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2458-11-614

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