Goal Setting, Past Performance and Behavioral Outcomes in a Worksite Wellness Program

Abstract

We examined the Walk Across TN (WAT) program, offered as a worksite wellness program for University of Tennessee (UT) Extension and Tennessee State University (TSU) Extension employees. WAT is an eight‐week virtual walk across the state, wherein participants form teams of six persons and log their physical activity as miles of walking. The objective of this study was to examine the association between goal setting, past performance in terms of physical activity level, and physical activity outcome during the first four weeks of the program. Participants were recruited from individuals who were registered in the WAT program. Physical activity level was assessed by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and categorized as compliers (moderate/high level), and non‐compliers (low level). Participants set their physical activity goal, at baseline, and reported their physical activity on a weekly basis, during the program. Accordingly, we calculated the percentage of the goal achieved during the program. Regression analyses were used to examine the association between weekly physical activity level, self‐set goal and past performance. Models were controlled for age and education. A total of 52 employees (90% female) participated in this study. At baseline, 25 individuals (48%) reported a low level of physical activity, i.e., non‐compliers. During the program, the reported physical activity level, as % of the baseline goal, ranged from −45% to 347% (median = 73%), with no significant difference between compilers and non‐compliers; mean (95% Confidence Interval): 66% (−7%, 140%) vs. 101% (32%, 169%), respectively, p = 0.15. In addition, participants who were compliant with physical activity guidelines at baseline vs. non‐compliers did not differ significantly in terms of the average weekly physical activity level; least‐squares mean (standard error): 18 (4.9) vs. 14 (4.5), p = 0.16. In conclusion, participants with low level of physical activity may benefit from behavioral strategies that improve their motivation, such as group support and goal setting.Support or Funding InformationUniversity of Tennessee Extension, Department of Family and Consumer Sciences