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A Comparison of Face-to-Face or Internet-Delivered Physical Activity Intervention on Targeted Determinants

Institute of Metabolic Sciences, Cambridge, United Kingdom, rebekah.steele{at}mrc-epid.cam.ac.uk

W.K. Mummery, PhD

College of Health and Human Services, Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Health, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, Queensland, Australia

Trudy Dwyer, PhD

College of Health and Human Services, Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Health, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, Queensland, Australia

This article describes the equivalency testing results of a 12-week behavior change program on targeted determinates of physical activity (PA) and self-reported health status. Participants (n = 192) were randomized to face-to-face, combined Internet and face-to-face, and Internet-only groups. Equivalency testing was used to examine differences and statistical equivalency across groups for all outcome measures (social support, self-efficacy, perceived health status, and motivational readiness for PA). Participants were assessed at baseline, postintervention, and 2 and 5 months postintervention. Motivational readiness for PA increased across all groups. The face-to-face and combined groups showed changes in social support; however, they were not statistically different and were equivalent. There were no changes in self-efficacy or physical health status. Overall face-to-face and the Internet delivery modes show similar results. If Internet-based programs can be shown to be as effective as face-to-face, they may in turn be a more efficient and cost-effective delivery method.

Key Words: equivalency testing • Internet • behavior change

This version was published on December 1, 2009

Health Education & Behavior, Vol. 36, No. 6, 1051-1064 (2009)
DOI: 10.1177/1090198109335802


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