Step It Up ECU is a clinical research trial under the direction of Dr. Lesley Lutes in the clinical health psychology program here at ECU. With over 65% of Americans now either overweight or obese, identifying ways to help individuals lose weight and live healthier lifestyles is a major public health priority. One way to improve health and manage weight is through an increase in physical activity. Currently, the recommended physical activity goal is 10,000 steps per day. However, this has never been tested compared to other types of goals. Specifically, research has yet to examine whether smaller changes in physical activity would yield similar results. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to compare a 10,000 step goal program with a step goal program that fosters small, gradual increases in physical activity relative to current activity level.

Step It Up ECU is seeking 60 men or women ages 21-65 who would be willing to commit to a 12-week program focused on increasing physical activity. Each participant will be randomly assigned to a treatment group and must be willing to wear a pedometer to monitor physical activity. Both groups will receive the same amount of time with a lifestyle coach, with the only difference between groups being the activity goal. Each participant must be willing to attend weekly individual meetings with a lifestyle coach. Six of these meetings will be conducted in-person and the other 6 will be over the telephone. Each meeting should last approximately 30 min each in order to discuss progress and re-assess goals. Overall, we are trying to determine which type of activity goal is more effective so that we can help people to make lifestyle changes that will help them stay healthy.

If you are interested, you will have to complete some information to determine if you are qualified to take part in the study.

Have questions? Contact Emily Steinbaugh at eks0613@ecu.edu