Effect of a Measure for Workplace Health Promotion with the Use of Pedometers to Reduce Cardiovascular Risk Factors (Pedometer study "DAMP plus 3000!")

Background: A negative correlation has been proposed for the relation between physical activity and cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension and obesity. Previous intervention studies on the context of blood pressure, body fat, and physical activity mainly considered targeted sports programs but not activities of daily living. Methods: For all participants (n = 99) the data for number of steps per day, blood pressure, and waist circumference were measured during the 6-month study period. To increase physical activity a defined step goal (an additional 3000 steps/day) was set for the participants of the intervention group. The number of steps per day was counted by pedometer and was documented in a diary. Concomitantly, a program of health education and motivation was conducted. Results: The intervention group showed a significant increase in physical activity (+2281 steps/day; +29.7 %) and a reduction in waist circumference (-3 cm). The responder group (= 2000+ steps/day) showed also a significant lowering of diastolic blood pressure (-4.8 mmHg). The intervention caused gender-specific effects and was more effective in the male study group. Conclusion: Physical activity can be significantly increased by exercise recommendations for everyday life and the use of pedometers and this may contribute to a significant reduction in the risk profile for cardiovascular disease.