Efficacy and Feasibility of the “Girls’ Recreational Activity Support Program Using Information Technology”: A Pilot Randomised Controlled Trial

Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of the Girls Recreational Activity Support Program Using Information Technology (GRASP-IT) intervention. This group randomized controlled trial for older adolescent girls (15 years+) combined face-to-face sessions with the use of a social network website, Facebook. Baseline and follow-up measurements were taken for physical activity (5 day pedometer), height, weight, estimated VO2max (Queen’s College Step Test), self-efficacy and peer social support. A process evaluation was conducted and included questionnaires and focus groups interviews. Although, the intervention group increased physical activity (mean 1878 steps/day) the difference between groups was not significant (p = 0.11, d = 0.8). BMI, fitness, self-efficacy and peer support all improved for the intervention group, however, changes were not statistically significant between groups. Although participants enjoyed the face-to- face component, engagement with the on-line component was low. Future interventions that utilize Facebook as a medium for increasing physical activity for adolescent girls require additional strategies to improve engagement and compliance.