MobileMums: A randomized controlled trial of an SMS-based physical activity intervention

Abstract

Background Postnatal women (<12 months postpartum) are at increased risk of physical inactivity.
Purpose To evaluate the efficacy and feasibility of a
theory-based physical activity (PA) intervention delivered
to postnatal women primarily via mobile telephone short
message service (SMS).
Methods Eighty-eight women were randomized to the
intervention (n=45) or minimal contact control (n=43)
condition. The 12-week intervention consisted of a face-to-face PA goal-setting consultation, a goal-setting magnet,
three to five personally tailored SMS/week and a nominated
support person who received two SMS per week. SMS content targeted constructs of social cognitive theory.
Frequency (days/week) and duration (min/week) of PA
participation and walking for exercise were assessed via
self-report at baseline, 6 and 13 weeks.
Results Intervention participants increased PA frequency
by 1.82 days/week (SE±0.18) by 13 weeks (F(2,85)=4.46,
p=0.038) and walking for exercise frequency by 1.08 days/
week (SE±0.24) by 13 weeks (F(2,85)=5.38, p=0.02).
Positive trends were observed for duration (min/week) of
PA and walking for exercise.
Conclusions Intervention exposure resulted in increased
frequency of PA and walking for exercise in postnatal
women.