Abstract 263: Predictors of Physical Activity Increase among People Enrolled in a Worksite Wellness Center

• Published in: Circulation Cardiovascular quality and outcomes Vol. 6; no. suppl_1
• Main Authors: Diaz-Melean, Carlos M, Rodriguez-Escudero, Juan P, Oliveros, Estefania, Clark, Matthew M, Somers, Virend, Egginton, Jason S, Thomas, Randal J, Lopez-Jimenez, Francisco
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 01-05-2013
• ISSN: 1941-7713; 1941-7705
• DOI: 10.1161/circoutcomes.6.suppl_1.A263

Abstract only
Background:
Physical activity (PA) prevents cardiovascular (CV) disease and maintains health. It is unclear which factors predict the adoption or maintenance of PA at a worksite wellness center.
Methods:
To assess the predictors of increase in PA we conducted a retrospective study on 7237 adults attending a worksite wellness center between September 2008 and October 2011. Upon joining the wellness center, participants completed an electronic or paper survey that assessed for the presence of CV risk factors, height, weight, self-perceived health behaviors and psychosocial factors using eleven validated 0-10 point scale. We included 1927 participants who completed the standard survey at the time of enrollment and at 12 months (+/- 90 days). For logistic regression analysis PA increase at 12 months was defined as an increase of ≥2 points of self-reported PA, on a 0 to 10 point scale, or maintenance of a high level of PA at follow up (FU).
Results:
Mean (SD) age was 38 (11) yr., BMI was 26.93 (6.06) kg/m
2
and 32% were men. From the study sample, 717 (37%) participants increased their PA level or maintained a high level of PA at FU. When comparing people who increased or maintained a high level of PA with the group without improvement or a decline in PA, there were differences in age and BMI: age [39 (11) vs. 38 (11) yr.; p=0.04] and BMI [27.37 (5.92) vs. 26.68 (5.92) kg/m
2
; p=0.024]. The Table reports the results of the multivariate logistic regression model. While CV risk factors (tobacco use, hyperglycemia/diabetes mellitus, and high blood cholesterol), perceived stress level and self-perception of being overweight were not significant predictors of increase PA, low muscular strength and flexibility and interactions with close friends were significantly associated with PA.
Conclusion:
A significant proportion of people, over one-third, enrolled in a wellness center increase their PA level or maintain high levels of PA at 12 months after enrollment. Increasing age and BMI, and a measure of social support; interaction with close friends, and perceived muscular strength and flexibility, predict increase in PA. Presence of CV risk factors do not predict increase in PA. Tailoring programs to address these domains may help younger, less fit, and those with less social support improve their PA level.