Integration of walking intervention combining activity monitor and online application into preventive care in general practice: pilot randomised controlled study

4 Abstract Background: Insufficient physical activity is one of the leading modifiable risk factors responsible for numerous chronic diseases and for premature death. Walking can be considered as the most natural form of physical activity and can be easily incorporated into many activities of daily living. Interventions aimed at promoting walking could substantially contribute towards increasing physical activity levels of the most sedentary individuals; within these interventions, pedometers are commonly used as effective motivational instruments to increase walking in healthy adults and across a range clinical conditions. Additional counseling provided in regular intervals throughout the intervention period can positively influence patients' adherence and help patients overcome certain psychological or lifestyle barriers, ultimately increasing physical activity. Objectives: The main objectives are: (1) To evaluate the feasibility of a pedometer-based walking intervention supplemented with a counseling component in a pilot randomized controlled trial. (2) To assess the preliminary efficacy of the intervention on PA levels and health-related outcomes, including measures of mental health and health-related quality of life. (3) To qualitatively explore the views of patients participating in the intervention...