Pedometers and Text Messaging to Increase Physical Activity: Randomized Controlled Trial of Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes
- Kirsty H Newton, MPHC (Kirsty.newton{at}ccdhb.org.nz)1,
- Esko J Wiltshire, MD, FRACP2 and
- C Raina Elley, MBChB, FRNZCGP, PhD3
- 1 Department of Primary Health Care and General Practice, University of Otago Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
- 2 Department of Paediatrics, University of Otago Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
- 3 Department of Primary Health Care and General Practice, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
Abstract
Aim: To assess whether pedometers and text messaging increase physical activity in adolescents with Type 1 diabetes.
Methods: Randomised controlled trial of 12 weeks. 78 participants (14.4±2.37 years, 36 (47%) male). Intervention participants wore an open pedometer and received regular motivational text messages. Control participants received usual care. Primary outcomes were daily step count (4-day closed pedometer) and physical activity (PA) questionnaire.
Results: Baseline median step count 11,063 steps per day (range: 1,541–20,158). At 12-weeks, mean daily step count reduced by 840 (95% CI −1947, 266) steps per day in control group and 22 (−1,407, 1,364) steps per day in intervention group (p=0.4). Mean self-reported moderate or vigorous PA increased by 38.5 minutes per week in control group, 48.4 minutes per week in intervention group (p=0.9).
Conclusion: A 12-week intervention using pedometers and text messaging as motivational tools in adolescents with Type 1 diabetes did not increase physical activity.
Footnotes
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- Received November 3, 2008.
- Accepted February 10, 2009.
- Copyright © American Diabetes Association
