Use of the stages of change model in improving nutrition and exercise habits in enlisted air force men

Abstract

Thirty-nine U.S. Air Force enlisted men participated in a randomized controlled study that evaluated an experimental program designed to enhance fitness. Subjects were assigned to either a treatment (access to the program) or control (no access to program) group for 6 months. To improve treatment group fitness (as measured by VO2, subjects received individually tailored information (based on a behavior change model) via the Internet to encourage adoption of positive diet and exercise behaviors. Results showed no significant effect in improving fitness in treatment. However, significant effects were observed for secondary outcomes such as weight (controls, +1.0 kg vs. treatment, -2.2 kg, p < 0.05), body mass index (+0.3 kg/m2 VS. -0.7 kg/m2, p < 0.05), and percent body fat (+0.6% vs. -1.5%, p < 0.001). The data suggest that the individually tailored exercise information was not effective in encouraging sufficient exercise intensity to impact fitness. However, the dietary tailored information appears to have encouraged the adoption of more positive nutritional practices as demonstrated by the beneficial effects reflected in secondary outcomes.