Abstract

Purpose. The purpose of this study was to test the test the efficacy of the internet-based ALED program in increasing participants' self-efficacy and pedometer-measured physical activity volume. Methods . Data were collected from a convenience sample of 27 sedentary, overweight adults. Study participants were randomized into control and intervention groups. Self-efficacy and pedometer steps were recorded at baseline and at study conclusion. One-way analysis of variance, repeated measures analysis of variance, Pearson correlations, and stepwise multiple linear regression were used to analyze data. Results. The groups were similar in demographics and variables of interest at baseline except for BMI (Control = 30.0+2.9 vs. Intervention = 34.7+6.9). There was no significant difference from baseline to post-testing between groups in self-efficacy or pedometer steps. Change in self-efficacy was moderately and positively correlated with change in pedometer steps. Baseline self-efficacy was not correlated with change in pedometer steps nor was post-testing self-efficacy correlated with the number of ALED journal activities completed. There was no difference in self-efficacy between those who completed at least one internet activity and those who completed none. Steps at baseline, change in self-efficacy, and percent body fat best predicted change in pedometer steps. Conclusions . Self-efficacy is correlated with pedometer steps. The ALED intervention did not change self-efficacy or pedometer steps, presumably due to Type III error. Future studies should consider using a larger sample size and, given the large variance in steps observed in this study, should consider whether daily step medians, minimums, maximums, or variances are affected even when means are not.