Randomized controlled trial of effectiveness of pedometers on general practitioners' attitudes to engagement in and promotion of physical activity

Ina James, Andy Smith, Teena Smith, Edward Kirby, Philippa Press, Patrick Doherty

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Pedometers have been identified as a tool for health professionals to promote physical activity. This study, which aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of wearing a pedometer on general practitioners' attitudes to promoting physical activity, was a pragmatic, multi-centred, randomized controlled trial within a primary care trust in England. The participants were 102 general practitioners (GPs). Eighty-five (48 males, 37 females) of the GPs completed pre and post questionnaires, 43 of whom were in the intervention group. Statistical analysis revealed no significant changes between the control and intervention groups for attitude to engage in physical activity (t(83) = 1.13, CI -0.362 to 0.099) or attitude to promote physical activity in their patients (t(83) = 1.7, CI -0.593 to 0.045). A higher volume of walking was significantly correlated with a more positive attitude to engage in physical activity (r = 0.58, P
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)753-8
Number of pages6
JournalJournal of sports sciences
Volume27
Issue number7
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - May 2009

Keywords

  • Attitude of Health Personnel
  • England
  • Female
  • Health Behavior
  • Health Promotion
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Physicians, Family
  • Sports Equipment
  • Walking

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