Use of personal trainers and financial incentives to increase exercise in a behavioral weight-loss program

J Consult Clin Psychol. 1998 Oct;66(5):777-83. doi: 10.1037//0022-006x.66.5.777.

Abstract

Exercise is the best predictor of long-term weight loss. This study evaluated two strategies for improving exercise adherence and long-term weight loss in obese outpatients. Obese men and women (N = 193) were randomized to 1 of 5 treatment groups for 18 months: standard behavior therapy (SBT); SBT with supervised walks (SW) 3 times per week; SBT + SW with personal trainers (PT), who walked with participants, made phone reminders, and did make-up SW; SBT + SW with monetary incentives (I) for completing SW; and SBT + SW + PT + I. Both PT and I enhanced attendance at SWs, the combination producing the best adherence. Increased walk attendance did not result in higher overall energy expenditure, however, and long-term weight loss was also not improved. Post hoc analyses suggest that the level of exercise needed for successful long-term weight loss is much higher than that usually recommended in behavioral treatment programs.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Behavior Therapy* / methods
  • Behavior Therapy* / standards
  • Exercise Therapy* / methods
  • Exercise Therapy* / standards
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Linear Models
  • Longitudinal Studies
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Motivation
  • Obesity / therapy*
  • Patient Compliance
  • Reward*
  • Treatment Outcome