A Comparison of Internet and Print-Based Physical Activity Interventions

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Abstract
The surgeon general recommends that Americans engage in regular physical activity to promote living longer and more disease-free lives.1 Despite this recommendation, only 45% of Americans engage in regular moderate-intensity physical activity (eg, brisk walking), defined by at least 30 minutes per day on most or all days of the week.2 Physical activity promotion interventions based on behavior change theory have shown efficacy3,4 and can be delivered through non–face-to-face media to reduce barriers, such as lack of access and time constraints.5 For example, in 2 randomized controlled trials, print-based, individually tailored, motivational materials were shown to be superior to nontailored, print-based, physical activity materials6 and to a print-based contact control.7 Print-based interventions, however, have a number of potential drawbacks, including the delay in mailing participant feedback, the need for participants to store and keep track of printed feedback reports, the lack of immediate interactivity, and the cost of postage and person power necessary to deliver the intervention.