Theoretical models for pedometer use in physical activity interventions

Abstract

Background: Research shows that pedometers help to increase daily physical activity. However, much less is known about why pedometers work, specifically as it relates to the theoretical grounding of pedometerbased interventions.Objectives: To complete a full review of the literature regarding the use of theory and specific skills/tools used in pedometer-based interventions as it relates to changes in behaviour across time.Methods: Thirty-one original theoretically-based intervention studies were identified to inform this review of theoretical constructs, intervention strategies, and pedometer contributions that influence walking behaviour.Results: Studies suggest that Social Cognitive Theory (SCT), specifically the behaviours of self-monitoring, feedback, and goal-setting are critical elements for an intervention. While the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TBP) successfully increases motivation, there is less evidence that changing motivation alone translates into behaviour change. However, adding the Implementation Intention (II) Theory appears to hold promise. Using behavioural techniques guided by the Transtheoretical Model (TTM) appear to provide benefit when considering population, the environment, and overcoming environmental barriers. Other and new integrated models are also emerging in this area, such as the small changes model (SCM). Conclusions: While the field of pedometer-based interventions holds significant potential to address the physical inactivity crisis, interventionists should use theory to guide intervention, consistent description of the theory, skills and tools used in an intervention, and reported step counts to compare interventions in order to advance the impact of this important area of research.

Impact of an exercise programme on sustaining physical activity for recovering cancer patients: A qualitative study.

“…The findings from research [23][24][25] are consistent with our study, as the patients were encouraged to increase their step target weekly and all sessions included aspects of counselling. Where our study contributes to literature in this area is that in many instances patients reported postprogramme increases in pedometer steps far in excess of the 1099 identified [25].…”

“…Where our study contributes to literature in this area is that in many instances patients reported postprogramme increases in pedometer steps far in excess of the 1099 identified [25]. This finding is welcome given that the programme in our study was only 8 weeks in duration and included a more diverse group of cancer patients.…”

“…This study acknowledges that pedometers have been shown to enhance adherence to exercise programmes for patients with chronic diseases [23][24][25][26]. However, the key point here is that pedometers can also be an effective method for cancer patients to independently sustain physical activity.…”

“…Evidence has emerged demonstrating their potential to increase physical activity and fitness levels [24], particularly when combined with behaviour change techniques [25]. A systematic review examined the role of pedometers in improving the daily walking activity of breast cancer survivors [26].…”

Smart tailoring of real-time physical activity coaching systems

“…Kohl et al (2000) reviews various assessment techniques, citing articles dating back to 1971, and classifies techniques into six categories, including self-report (Sallis & Saelens 2000), direct observation (McKenzie 2002), indirect-, and direct calorimetry (Bailey et al 1995), doubly labeled water (Speakman 1998) and electronic or mechanical monitoring using e.g. pedometers (Saris & Binkhorst 1977, Lutes & Steinbaugh 2010 and accelerometry (Bouten et al 1997, Plasqui et al 2013. Activity monitoring tools in this last category have seen a surge in recent years due to their low cost and unobtrusive applicability.…”