The preliminary examination of the integration of an indoor-walking DVD in NJ SNAP-Ed and EFNEP nutrition education classes

Obesity has been identified as a significant cause of death and disease among Americans. Therefore, increasing the prevalence of physical activity is a public health goal. The literature has pointed towards the efficacy of walking programs to increase physical activity. However, there is a need for more-inclusive, theory-driven interventions among larger, more diverse audiences. Using an indoor-walking digital video disc (DVD) with a diverse cast, this dissertation project aimed to contribute towards closing gap in adult physical activity education research. The research aim of this project was to assess the viability of using the DVD in NJ SNAP-Ed and EFNEP classes which serve limited-resource, diverse adults. Study participants’ change in barriers to physical activity, stage of exercise, and dietary intake were tested using a randomized, repeated measures design. As a result of exposure to the DVD, participants’ barriers to physical activity decreased and exercise habits were maintained without detriment to the primary purpose of nutrition education. These findings bode well for the future use of the DVD as a strategy to promote sustainable, moderate-intensity, leisure time physical activity among limited-resource adults.Ph. D.Includes bibliographical referencesIncludes vitaby Kirsten White Cord