West Virginia University researchers are turning to the computer to get people off the couch.
The WVU College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences is offering Active Living Every Day Online, a Web-based behavior-change program aimed at helping sedentary adults fit physical activity into their lives in realistic ways.
We want to learn more about using the Internet to get people to be more physically active,said Amy Sidwell, a visiting instructor who is conducting the research with Sean Bulger , an assistant professor in the college.
The program will begin in September and continue through January 2009. The deadline to register is Aug. 22. The cost is $56 and includes a book, blood work and access to additional support through the programs Web site.
Participants in the research study will log onto the Active Living Every Day Web site, where they will describe their physical activity, Sidwell said.
They will visit the campus on four occasions to have their cholesterol and body mass index measured, Sidwell added. They will also wear a pedometer, or step counter, the weeks of their visits.
Physical inactivity is a major health problem in the United States, with studies showing more than 60 percent of Americans not getting enough physical activity and 25 percent almost completely sedentary. Each year, as many as 300,000 deaths in the country are a result of physical inactivity and poor diet.
Complicating this, most Americans are aware of the health benefits of physical activity but cant seem to get active. They want to be active but have problems maintaining traditional exercise programs. Although 38 percent of inactive Americans say they want to be more active, 50 percent drop out of exercise programs within six months.
Active Living Every Days emphasis on moderate-intensity activity, fitting activity into life in realistic ways and personalizing physical activity programs makes it an appealing alternative to traditional fitness programs.
Those interested in learning more may contact Sidwell at 304-290-7213 or ” amy.sidwell@mail.wvu.edu rel=nofollow> amy.sidwell@mail.wvu.edu .