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Mind The Steps”: a community based website to improve a healthy lifestyle at the workplace Host Publication: Abstract book 3rd International Congress on Physical Activity and Public Health Authors: E. Zinzen, K. Verbeiren, T. Weemaes, K. Michiels, B. Jansen and P. Clarys Publication Date: May. 2010
Abstract: Background: Success of health interventions in the workplace are often depended on the willingness
and motivation of the company management. Purpose: Determine the effect of a website community on
behavioral changes to improve general health in the workplace. Methods: The "Mind the steps" website
was developed to evaluate physical activity (PA) data measured by the Sensewear pro3 (Bodymedia)
sensor. When low PA was noted, improving tips were provided by the website. Questions and remarks
could be shared with all participants or within own groups (community). 4 groups of each 8 subjects were
created based on level of self-mentioned PA. Daily data downloads were performed during a three week
period. One way ANOVA statistics were used to determine differences between groups and between
weeks. A questionnaire was used to determine satisfaction and behavioral change. Results: Groups
differed significantly on PA, no evolution in PA was noted through the weeks. Satisfaction regarding
website was high all participants, except the high active group, stated they changed PA behavior.
Conclusions: This pilot study indicates that the "Mind the Steps" website can influence behavior to
increase physical activity in a not very active population. A large scale intervention should confirm these results.
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