Worksite Physical Activity Intervention Research Articles

Efficacy Of Smartphone App In Worksite Physical Activity Intervention And Anthropometric Changes In Obese Women

Most U.S. office workers engage in little physical activity and increased time sitting which increases risk for adverse health conditions such as obesity. Research on the effectiveness of smartphone apps to increase physical activity and reduce sitting time in workers in limited. PURPOSE: To examine the efficacy of a smartphone app and worksite physical activity intervention program to increase daily physical activity with the goal of reducing sitting time via walking or increased steps on anthropometric changes over an 8-week period. METHODS: Subjects (N=22) were obese, female volunteers, all of whom had access to a smartphone and the StridekickTM app, that recorded steps, with a progressive goal of 7,500-15,000 daily steps. Relative (%) body fat was measured via DEXA scan, along with five anthropometric measurements, biceps, waist, abdomen, hips and thigh, prior to and after 8 weeks. Dependent samples t tests probed for significant differences at the p<0.05 level. Values are expressed as mean±standard deviation. RESULTS: Significant changes were determined for the pre-post anthropometric measurements: biceps, hips and thigh (12.0+1.1 vs.11.5+1.3; 42.8+5.1 vs. 42.2+5.1; 24.9+2.7, vs. 23.8+2.8 in, respectively). Pre-post BMI, waist, abdomen measurements and % relative fat were not significantly different (31.0+5.7 vs. 30.5 + 5.7 kg/m2; 34.1±4.8 vs. 34.1+4.9 in; 39.2 + 4.7 vs. 39.0 + 4.8 in; 41.4±6.6 vs. 41.8+6.3 %fat, respectively). CONCLUSION: This work is suggestive that the incorporation of a smartphone app into a worksite physical activity intervention may change anthropometric measures via increasing steps and ultimately reduce adverse health concerns.

Impact of a group-based intervention program on physical activity and health-related outcomes in worksite settings

BackgroundThe benefits of physical activity (PA) have been well documented, and the worksite is a promising setting for PA promotion. The aims of this study were as follows: 1. To evaluate the effect of a group-based worksite intervention on PA and health-related outcomes by using pedometers. 2. To examine the associations between the change in vigorous physical activity (VPA)/moderate physical activity (MPA)/walking and health related outcomes.MethodsA total of 398 participants (221 in the intervention group (IG) and 177 in the control group (CG)) from 17 worksites were recruited for a prospective self-controlled trial of a worksite physical activity intervention program in China. In the IG, a pedometer was utilized to self-monitor the PA, together with group competition, goal setting, and other incentives. No intervention was applied to the CG. Physical activity, sedentary behavior, and health-related outcomes were measured at baseline and immediately after the 100-day period intervention.ResultsA total of 262 participants completed the program (68.3% adherence). Adherence in the intervention group was 67.9% (n = 150/221). Improvements between baseline and follow-up among intervention participants were observed in the following parameters: VPA (+ 109.7 METs/week; p < 0.05), walking (+ 209.2 METs/week; p < 0.01), systolic blood pressure (SBP; − 2.1 mmHg; p < 0.01), waist circumference (WC; − 2.3 cm; p < 0.01), body fat percentage (BF); − 1.0%; p < 0.01), and body mass index (BMI; − 0.5 kg/m2; p < 0.01). VPA was related to changes in body fat percentage (p < 0.05) and body mass index (p < 0.05).ConclusionThis integrated group-based intervention program contributed to comprehensive improvement in health-related outcomes. The study was useful for establishing associations between change in VPA/MPA/walking and health-related outcomes in a natural setting. Long-term evaluation is required to examine the potential of such an integrated intervention to promote PA.RegistrationThis study was prospectively registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry. Trial registration number: ChiCTR-1,800,015,529. Date of registration: April 5, 2018.

Is workplace an appropriate setting for the promotion of physical activity? A new framework for worksite interventions among employees.

Although the evolution of human occupational tasks has been encouraging with a shift from an active lifestyle to a more sedentary way of life, workplaces have also been suggested as a new strategic opportunity to promote physical activity. While there is a growing body of literature regarding the effect of worksite physical activity interventions, there is a need to improve these interventions, their objectives and implementation. This Sounding Board article proposes for the first time a framework regarding the implementation of such interventions within the workplace, suggesting a joint approach combining physical activity and health specialists as well as ergonomists that are experts in human work sciences.

Worksite physical activity intervention and somatic symptoms burden: The role of coworker support for basic psychological needs and autonomous motivation.

Suffering from somatic symptoms can seriously hamper one's quality of life and ability to function, causing lost work productivity, sickness absence, and extensive medical utilization. Physical activity (PA) has demonstrated promising results related to mild to moderate cases of somatic symptoms. The present study explored whether a worksite health promotion intervention was able to increase PA and cardiorespiratory fitness, and to reduce somatic symptoms and sickness absence. The intervention was designed based on the tenets of Self-determination theory. A pre-post cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted with 202 industrial workers in a Norwegian logistics company. Results from repeated measures, multivariate analysis of variance, revealed an overall intervention effect and significant change between groups related to somatic symptoms in favor of the intervention group, albeit no significant change in sickness absence. We applied structural equations modeling to test a model of health behavioral change, which posited that increased support for PA from coworkers and autonomous motivation for PA predicted changes in PA, cardiorespiratory fitness, and somatic symptoms. The results underline the effectiveness of including coworker social support in health promotion programs aimed to increase PA and reduce somatic symptoms. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved).

P64 - Evaluation of Worksite Wellness Nutrition and Physical Activity Interventions and Their Subsequent Impact on Participants' Body Compositions: A Systematic Review

P64 - Evaluation of Worksite Wellness Nutrition and Physical Activity Interventions and Their Subsequent Impact on Participants' Body Compositions: A Systematic Review

The effects of a 12-week worksite physical activity intervention on anthropometric indices, blood pressure indices, and plasma biomarkers of cardiovascular disease risk among university employees

BackgroundTo determine the effectiveness of a low-cost 12-week worksite physical activity intervention targeting a goal of 10,000 steps per day on reducing anthropometric indices, blood pressure indices, and plasma biomarkers of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk among the employees of a major university.MethodsFifty university employees (n = 43 female, n = 7 male; mean age = 48 ± 10 years) participated in the 12-week physical activity intervention (60 min, 3 day/week). Each session included both aerobic (cardiorespiratory endurance) and muscle-strengthening (resistance) physical activity using existing university facilities and equipment. Anthropometric indices, blood pressure indices, and plasma biomarkers of CVD risk assessed included those for obesity (body mass index), hypertension (systolic blood pressure, SBP; diastolic blood pressure, DBP), dyslipidemia (high-density lipoprotein, HDL; low-density lipoprotein, LDL; total serum cholesterol), and prediabetes (impaired fasting glucose, IFG). Steps per day were assessed using a wrist-worn activity monitor. Participants were given the goal of 10,000 steps per day and categorized as either compliers (≥ 10,000 steps per day on average) or non-compliers (< 10,000 steps per day on average) based on their ability to achieve this goal.ResultsOverall, 34% of participants at baseline were already at an elevated risk of CVD due to age. On average, 28% of participants adhered to the goal of 10,000 steps per day. After 12-weeks, participants in both groups (compliers and non-compliers) had lower BMI scores (p < 0.001), lower HDL scores (p < 0.034), and higher IFG scores (p < 0.001). The non-compliers had a greater reduction of BMI scores than the compliers (p = 0.003). Participants at risk for CVD had greater reductions than those not at risk for several risk factors, including SBP (p = 0.020), DBP (p = 0.028), IFG (p = 0.002), LDL (p = 0.006), and total serum cholesterol (p = 0.009).ConclusionWhile the physical activity intervention showed mixed results overall with both favorable changes in anthropometric indices yet unfavorable changes in plasma biomarkers, it was particularly beneficial in regards to both blood pressure indices and plasma biomarkers among those already at risk of CVD.Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03385447; retrospectively registered

Worksite Physical Activity Intervention for Ambulatory Clinic Nursing Staff.

Health behaviors, including physical activity (PA), of registered nurses (RNs) and medical assistants (MAs) are suboptimal but may improve with worksite programs. Using a repeated-measures crossover design, the authors explored if integrating a 6-month worksite non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT) intervention, with and without personalized health coaching via text messaging into workflow could positively affect sedentary time, PA, and body composition of nursing staff without jeopardizing work productivity. Two ambulatory clinics were randomly assigned to an environmental NEAT intervention plus a mobile text message coaching for either the first 3 months (early texting group, n = 27) or the last 3 months (delayed texting group, n = 13), with baseline 3-month and 6-month measurements. Sedentary and PA levels, fat mass, and weight improved for both groups, significantly only for the early text group. Productivity did not decline for either group. This worksite intervention is feasible and may benefit nursing staff.

Intervention fidelity and effectiveness of a UK worksite physical activity intervention funded by the BUPA Foundation, UK.

The main aim of this study was to test whether the effectiveness of a worksite physical activity intervention delivered in five work organizations varied as a function of intervention fidelity. We conducted a fidelity analysis as part of a large matched-pair cluster randomized controlled trial of a worksite physical activity intervention (AME for Activity). Participants (N = 1260) were employees from five organizations in the UK. The primary trial outcome was physical activity at 9 months post intervention. Adherence, exposure, quality of delivery and participant responsiveness/engagement were measured to assess fidelity. Qualitative data about the context in which the intervention was delivered were collected via focus groups, interviews and field notes. Multi-level modelling was used to provide a comparison of the effect of the intervention on increases in physical activity for worksites where intervention fidelity was good, compared with those where intervention fidelity was poor or moderate. Intervention fidelity was poor in two organizations, moderate in two organizations and good in one organization (local council). Re-analysis of the trial data comparing employees in the local council (N = 443) with employees in all other worksites (N = 611) revealed a significant effect of the intervention on physical activity levels among council employees only. These findings suggest that the measurement of fidelity and the testing of the effects of intervention fidelity on outcomes, as part of the evaluation of complex interventions, are essential to understand the context and conditions in which interventions are most effective.

The physically active lifestyle of Flemish secondary school teachers: A mixed-methods approach towards developing a physical activity intervention

Objective: The primary aim of this study was to describe and analyse the physical activity and sedentary levels of secondary school teachers in Flanders. A secondary aim was to collect information regarding a possible worksite intervention of special relevance to secondary school teachers. Design: Mixed-methods quantitative and qualitative enquiry. Setting: Secondary school teachers in Flanders. Method: An online survey was conducted consisting of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, demographic information and teaching aspects. Additionally, four focus groups ( n = 27) took place. Results: Respondents reported an average of 137.2 ± 96.8 minutes/day of physical activity and an average sitting time of 4.6 ± 4.2 hours/day. Overall, 66% of Flemish teachers met the physical activity guidelines of at least 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity a week. Lower levels of activity were more prevalent among female teachers, teachers working in technical and general education and those teaching theoretical courses. In focus group discussions, two types of barriers were identified influencing teachers’ physical activity at school: organisational barriers such as planning and lack of accommodation, and individual barriers such as having other responsibilities. Conclusions: Interventions can be developed to target less active teachers. However, a classic worksite physical activity intervention during working hours is not suitable for most teachers. Promoting leisure-time activity and active commuting are more fitting components of an intervention for this target group. Actions at school should be achievable and unforced, supporting teachers’ development of physical literacy.

The impact of theory on the effectiveness of worksite physical activity interventions: a meta-analysis and meta-regression

Background. Despite the potential importance of worksite physical activity interventions, reviews suggest there is currently a lack of clarity regarding their effectiveness. Aim. This meta-analysis assessed the effectiveness of worksite interventions designed to promote physical activity and investigate whether (1) interventions explicitly designed based on theory are more effective, and (2) inclusion of specific behaviour change techniques (BCTs) improves effectiveness. Methods. Worksite interventions with a primary aim of increasing physical activity were systematically reviewed. Designs were experimental or quasi-experimental and outcome measures were objective or validated self-report. Interventions were coded based on the extent to which theory/predictors were used to select/develop intervention techniques. A standardised theory-linked taxonomy of 26 BCTs was also used to code interventions. Effects of explicit use of theory, individual techniques and number of BCTs used were assessed using meta-analysis and meta-regression. Results. Twenty-six studies reporting 27 evaluations were included in the meta-analysis and a random effects model produced an overall effect size (d) of 0.21 (95% CI 0.17–0.26). Subgroup analysis indicated that interventions using theory more explicitly were more effective, producing an effect size of 0.34 (95% CI 0.23–0.45; I 2=0%). No significant differences in effect sizes were found between studies that had used individual BCTs and those that had not, and studies that used more techniques were not more effective. Conclusion. Overall, worksite physical activity interventions were effective, but only produced small sized effects on physical activity. Theory-based interventions were more effective.

Treadmill Workstations: A Worksite Physical Activity Intervention in Overweight and Obese Office Workers

To determine if a treadmill-workstation (TMWS) increases physical activity (PA) and influences anthropometric, body composition, cardiovascular, and metabolic variables in overweight and obese office-workers. Twelve (mean age= 46.2 ± 9.2 years) overweight/obese sedentary office-workers (mean BMI= 33.9 ± 5.0 kg·m-2) volunteered to participate in this 9-month study. After baseline measurements of postural allocation, steps per day, anthropometric variables, body composition, cardiovascular, and metabolic variables, TMWS were installed in the participants' offices for their use. Baseline measurements were repeated after 3 and 9 months. Comparisons of the outcome variables were made using repeated-measures ANOVAs or nonparametric Friedman's Rank Tests. Between baseline and 9 months, significant increases were seen in the median standing (146-203 min·day-1) and stepping time (52-90 min·day-1) and total steps/day (4351-7080 steps/day; P < .05). Correspondingly, the median time spent sitting/lying decreased (1238-1150 min·day-1; P < .05). Using the TMWS significantly reduced waist (by 5.5 cm) and hip circumference (by 4.8 cm), low-density lipoproteins (LDL) (by 16 mg·dL-1), and total cholesterol (by 15 mg·dL-1) during the study (P < .05). The additional PA energy expenditure from using the TMWS favorably influenced waist and hip circumferences and lipid and metabolic profiles in overweight and obese office-workers.

Effects of a Worksite Physical Activity Intervention for Hospital Nurses Who are Working Mothers

Hospital nurses who are working mothers are challenged to maintain their personal health and model healthy behaviors for their children. This study aimed to develop and test an innovative 10-week worksite physical activity intervention integrated into the work flow of hospital-based nurses who were mothers. Three volunteer adult medical-surgical nursing units participated as intervention units. Fifty-eight nurses (30 intervention and 28 control) provided baseline and post-intervention repeated measurements of physical activity (steps) and body composition. Intervention participants provided post-intervention focus group feedback. For both groups, daily steps averaged more than 12,400 at baseline and post-intervention. No significant effects were found for physical activity; significant effects were found for fat mass, fat index, and percent fat ( p &lt; .03). Focus group findings supported the intervention and other data collected. The worksite holds promise for targeting the health of working mothers. Future research is warranted with a larger sample, longer intervention, and additional measures.

Effects of a Worksite Physical Activity Intervention for Hospital Nurses Who Are Working Mothers

Hospital nurses who are working mothers are challenged to maintain their personal health and model healthy behaviors for their children. This study aimed to develop and test an innovative 10-week worksite physical activity intervention integrated into the work flow of hospital-based nurses who were mothers. Three volunteer adult medical-surgical nursing units participated as intervention units. Fifty-eight nurses (30 intervention and 28 control) provided baseline and post-intervention repeated measurements of physical activity (steps) and body composition. Intervention participants provided post-intervention focus group feedback. For both groups, daily steps averaged more than 12,400 at baseline and post-intervention. No significant effects were found for physical activity; significant effects were found for fat mass, fat index, and percent fat (p < .03). Focus group findings supported the intervention and other data collected. The worksite holds promise for targeting the health of working mothers. Future research is warranted with a larger sample, longer intervention, and additional measures.

Worksite Physical Activity Interventions and Obesity: A Review of European Studies (the HOPE Project)

Objective: Our aim was to review the effectiveness of physical activity promotion interventions in the worksite setting in Europe in order to identify those studies that had measured obesity-related outcomes and to evaluate how external validity of the findings had been assessed. Methods: We conducted a review of studies conducted in Europe, published up to December 2009. We assessed levels of evidence regarding effectiveness and analysed external validity using the RE-AIM framework. Results: Studies included (n = 33) were divided in 6 intervention categories. Moderate evidence of effectiveness was found for physical fitness outcomes with exercise training interventions and for physical activity outcomes with active commuting interventions. There was no or inconclusive evidence for obesity-related outcomes for all intervention categories. For external validity, elements receiving the least attention (<20%) were representativeness of participants, setting-level inclusion/exclusion criteria and representativeness, characteristics regarding intervention staff, implementation of intervention, costs, long-term effects and programme sustainability. Conclusions: Active commuting and exercise training appear as promising approaches to promote physical activity or fitness in the workplace. The effect of interventions on obesity-related outcomes remains to be further investigated. There is a need to better report elements of generalizability and dissemination for translation into practice of worksite physical activity interventions.

Testing a workplace physical activity intervention: a cluster randomized controlled trial

BackgroundIncreased physical activity levels benefit both an individuals' health and productivity at work. The purpose of the current study was to explore the impact and cost-effectiveness of a workplace physical activity intervention designed to increase physical activity levels.MethodsA total of 1260 participants from 44 UK worksites (based within 5 organizations) were recruited to a cluster randomized controlled trial with worksites randomly allocated to an intervention or control condition. Measurement of physical activity and other variables occurred at baseline, and at 0 months, 3 months and 9 months post-intervention. Health outcomes were measured during a 30 minute health check conducted in worksites at baseline and 9 months post intervention. The intervention consisted of a 3 month tool-kit of activities targeting components of the Theory of Planned Behavior, delivered in-house by nominated facilitators. Self-reported physical activity (measured using the IPAQ short-form) and health outcomes were assessed.Results and discussionMultilevel modelling found no significant effect of the intervention on MET minutes of activity (from the IPAQ) at any of the follow-up time points controlling for baseline activity. However, the intervention did significantly reduce systolic blood pressure (B = -1.79 mm/Hg) and resting heart rate (B = -2.08 beats) and significantly increased body mass index (B = .18 units) compared to control. The intervention was found not to be cost-effective, however the substantial variability round this estimate suggested that further research is warranted.ConclusionsThe current study found mixed support for this worksite physical activity intervention. The paper discusses some of the tensions involved in conducting rigorous evaluations of large-scale randomized controlled trials in real-world settings.Trial registrationCurrent controlled trials ISRCTN08807396

Effects Of Treadmill Workstations As A Worksite Physical Activity Intervention In Overweight And Obese Office Workers

PURPOSE: To determine if using a treadmill workstation influences anthropometric, body composition, cardiovascular, and metabolic variables in overweight and obese office workers. METHODS: Twelve (5 males and 7 females) (mean age= 46.2 + 9.2 yrs) overweight/obese sedentary office workers (mean BMI= 33.9 + 5.0 kg.m-2) volunteered to participate in this 9-month study. Baseline measurements included postural allocation, steps.day-1, anthropometric variables, body composition, resting heart rate and blood pressure, serum lipid profile, plasma glucose, insulin, and glycosylated hemoglobin. After baseline measurements were completed, treadmill workstations were installed in the participants' offices. All baseline measurements were repeated after three and nine months of the study. Differences among the outcome variables measured at the three time-points were compared using repeated measures ANOVAs or non-parametric Friedman's Rank Tests. RESULTS: Between baseline and nine months, significant increases were seen in the median times spent standing (146 to 203 min.day-1), stepping (52 to 90 min.day-1), and total steps.day-1 (4351 to 7080 steps.day-1). Correspondingly, the median time spent sitting/lying decreased (1238 to 1150 min.day-1) (p<0.05). Using the treadmill workstation significantly reduced waist circumference (by 5.5 cm) and hip circumference (by 4.8 cm), low-density lipoproteins (by 16 mg.dL-1), and total cholesterol (by 15 mg.dL-1) during the study (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Using a treadmill workstation significantly decreased sedentary time and increased standing and stepping time in our participants. This additional energy expenditure favorably influenced waist and hip circumferences and lipid and metabolic profiles in overweight and obese office workers.

The Effect of Worksite Physical Activity Intervention on Physical Capacity, Health, and Productivity: A 1-Year Randomized Controlled Trial

To investigate the effect of two contrasting physical activity worksite interventions versus a reference intervention (REF) on various health outcomes. A 1-year randomized controlled trial was conducted with specific resistance training (SRT), all-round physical exercise (APE), and REF. SRT and APE compared with REF showed significant reductions in systolic blood pressure (approximately 6 mm Hg), body fat percentage (approximately 2.2 body fat%), as well as shoulder and back pain (approximately 30% reduction in duration). Muscle strength (APE and SRT) and maximal oxygen uptake (APE) increased approximately 10%. Worksite intervention with both SRT as well as APE is recommended, since these activities compared with REF resulted in clinically relevant reductions of cardiovascular and metabolic syndrome-related risk factors as well as musculoskeletal pain symptoms, in combination with minor increases in physical capacity.

Evidence, Theory and Context: Using intervention mapping to develop a worksite physical activity intervention

BackgroundThe workplace is an ideal setting for health promotion. Helping employees to be more physically active can not only improve their physical and mental health, but can also have economic benefits such as reduced sickness absence. The current paper describes the development of a three month theory-based intervention that aims to increase levels of moderate intensity physical activity amongst employees in sedentary occupations.MethodsThe intervention was developed using an intervention mapping protocol. The intervention was also informed by previous literature, qualitative focus groups, an expert steering group, and feedback from key contacts within a range of organisations.ResultsThe intervention was designed to target awareness (e.g. provision of information), motivation (e.g. goal setting, social support) and environment (e.g. management support) and to address behavioural (e.g. increasing moderate physical activity in work) and interpersonal outcomes (e.g. encourage colleagues to be more physically active). The intervention can be implemented by local facilitators without the requirement for a large investment of resources. A facilitator manual was developed which listed step by step instructions on how to implement each component along with a suggested timetable.ConclusionAlthough time consuming, intervention mapping was found to be a useful tool for developing a theory based intervention. The length of this process has implications for the way in which funding bodies allow for the development of interventions as part of their funding policy. The intervention will be evaluated in a cluster randomised trial involving 1350 employees from 5 different organisations, results available September 2009.

One-year randomized controlled trial with different physical-activity programs to reduce musculoskeletal symptoms in the neck and shoulders among office workers

This study evaluates the effect of two different worksite physical-activity interventions on neck-shoulder symptoms, together with perceived work ability and sick leave among office workers. An examiner-blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted with 549 office workers allocated to one of three intervention groups: one with specific resistance training (SRT) of the neck-shoulder region (N=180), one with all-round physical exercise (APE) (N=187), and one which acted as a reference group, which was informed about general health-promoting activities but did not include a physical activity program (N=182). Questionnaires were filled out at baseline and after 1 year of training. The duration and intensity of neck and shoulder symptoms was lower after the specified worksite physical-activity interventions than in the reference group. On an intervention group level, SRT was not more effective than APE in reducing the duration and intensity of neck and shoulder symptoms. However, those asymptomatic at baseline had a significant lower prevalence of neck-shoulder symptoms at follow-up when allocated to the SRT group than placed in the APE group or reference group. At baseline the work ability index (WAI) was close to 90% of the maximum score, and the mean sick leave was 5 days per year, both being unaffected by the interventions. Different physical-activity interventions were successful in reducing neck-shoulder symptoms, and SRT was superior to APE in the primary prevention of such symptoms. The initially relatively high WAI was the most probable reason for no further increase in WAI. Likewise the mean sick leave the year before the intervention was very low, and it was probably not possible to reduce it further.

Offering physical activity counselling in occupational health care—does it reach the target group?

Employees participating in worksite physical activity (PA) interventions are mostly the physically active and healthy ones. PA counselling may therefore have an important role in reaching 'at-risk' employees. To examine (i) how PA counselling offered by occupational health care (OHC) providers reaches the target group of physically inactive employees who have intentions to increase PA and (ii) the relations of 12 selected variables to respondents' willingness to participate in PA counselling. Questionnaire survey of employees of client companies of OHC providers. Eight of the 19 OHC providers contacted participated and recruited a total of nine client companies to the study. A questionnaire survey was delivered to all the employees of the companies (n = 1349). Fifty-eight percent of employees (n = 784) responded to the survey and half of them (n = 380) belonged to the target group of being physically inactive and intending to increase PA. Only half of the respondents (n = 201) in the target group were willing to participate in counselling. Respondents in small companies were more interested in counselling than employees in large companies as were white-collar workers compared to blue-collar workers. Earlier PA discussions in OHC and intention to increase leisure-time PA were also positively related to willingness. A counselling offer attached to a survey did not effectively reach the target group of physically inactive employees who were ready to increase their PA. More individually based approaches such as brief conversations during client contacts are needed in OHC to raise the interest in lifestyle issues.