The relationships between physical activity and cardiometabolic risk factors among women participating in a university-based worksite wellness program

Abstract

Objective: Associations between changes in physical activity (PA) and cardiometabolic risk factors among women with overweight/obesity enrolled in a university-based worksite wellness program (WWP) were examined. Methods: Data from 173 women who completed a 26-week WWP were analyzed retrospectively. Participants completed diet and PA assessments and received client-centered diet/lifestyle counseling at baseline, and 12 and 26 weeks thereafter. Anthropometrics, blood pressure, and total cholesterol were measured; PA was self-reported using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-short form at each visit. Results: Significant improvements in anthropometrics (P < 0.001), blood pressure (P < 0.001), total cholesterol (P ¼ 0.014), and PA (P ¼ 0.007) were found at 26 weeks. In adjusted linear regression models, a 10 metabolic-equivalent-minute increase in PA was associated with 0.01% corresponding decreases in weight and waist circumference. Conclusion: Among women who completed this WWP, increased PA was associated with reductions in anthropometric measures.