Objective: to ascertain the effectiveness of an intervention program in relation to
anthropometric measurements and stage of readiness for behavioral change in women
with excess weight. Methods: the intervention group (IG) was made up of 13 women, and the control group (CG),
by 20. The intervention lasted 16 weeks, and included the practice of guided
physical activity three times a week, and health education once a week. The
application of the questionnaire on stage of readiness for behavioral change, and
the anthropometric evaluations, were undertaken at two points - before and after
the period of intervention. The statistical analysis involved tests of comparison
and association. Results: in general, at the first point, the participants in the two groups were
predisposed to make changes in what they ate and in their physical activity.
However, significant difference was only observed in relation to weight, body mass
index (BMI), waist circumference and waist-hip ratio and readiness for change
among the members of the intervention group. Conclusion: the intervention programmed was effective in weight loss, reduction of waist
circumference and waist-hip ratio, and in changing behaviors related to the
practicing of physical exercise and eating habits.