Healthy mind, healthy body: A randomized trial testing the efficacy of a computer-tailored vs. interactive web-based intervention for increasing physical activity and reducing depressive symptoms

Publication date: Available online 21 August 2016 Source:Mental Health and Physical Activity Author(s): Amanda L. Rebar, Cody Boles, Nicola W. Burton, Mitch J. Duncan, Camille E. Short, Brenda Happell, Gregory S. Kolt, Cristina M. Caperchione, Richard R. Rosenkranz, Corneel Vandelanotte Physical activity is an effective primary or adjunctive treatment to reduce depressive symptoms. Computer-tailored and interactive web-based physical activity interventions are potentially effective and accessible means for promoting physical activity, but little evidence exists regarding their efficacy in reducing depressive symptoms. We conducted a 2-arm randomised trial to compare the efficacy of these web-based interventions for increasing physical activity and reducing depressive symptoms. Participants (18 years or older and had no health condition limiting physical activity) were randomised to have access to a web-based physical activity intervention program with either computer-tailored advice (MyPAA) or interactive features (Walk 2.0). Only half of participants accessed the website at least once (MyPAA: allocated n = 252, accessed program n = 154, 61.1%; Walk 2.0: allocated n = 262, accessed program n = 120, 45.8%). Participants and the research team were blinded to group assignment. There were no significant between-group differences in change of self-reported physical activity or depressive symptoms. Physical activity significantly increased from baseline to one m...
Source: Mental Health and Physical Activity - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Source Type: research