ABSTRACT
The aim of this study was to assess the effects of a six-month pedometer-based workplace intervention on changes in resting blood pressure [BP] and cardjorespiratory fitness [CRF]. A subsample of ASUKI Step participants [n= 355] were randomly selected to have changes in their BP and CHF monitored during the intervention. Pedometers were used co monitor steps taken with a goal of walking more than 10.000 steps/day. Systolic and diastolic BP were taken using an Omron automated BP cuff. Estimated VO[2] max was obtained using the Astrand-Rhyming cycle ergometer test. A multi-level growth modeling approach, and a mixed d model ANOVA were used to predict changes in systolic and diastolic BP, and estimated VO[2] max over time by steps, age, gender, and university site. Steps/day averaged 12,256 [SD=3,180] during month 1 and steadily decreased to month 6. There were significant linear and quadratic trends in systolic and diastolic BP over time. Age was positively related to initial starting values for systolic and diastolic BP, and approached significance for systolic BP changes over time. Steps/day approached significance for linear changes in systolic BP. There was a significant difference between ASl and KI participants' estimated VO[2] max. There was a significant change over time in the estimated VO[2] max. The number of steps taken was significantly related to changes in estimated VO[2] max over time. The results of the present study indicate that healthy individuals who took part in a pedometer intervention improved several cardiovascular disease risk factors