Exercise Physiology Lab - Department of Human Movement Sciences
Current Research- Be Active...Be Healthy
Project Stepcount
Study description: The purpose of this study is to see if and how a web-based step-count feedback program promotes walking behavior in older adults. If you want to be more physically active and you have been sedentary for the last six months then you could qualify for this exciting new study. We are looking for 300 adults 50-80 years old that are currently inactive, have daily access to the internet, have no limitations to walking, and have no cardiovascular, pulmonary, or metabolic diseases.
The study will involve three visits to the Exercise Physiology Laboratory at UWM:
On the day of your first testing session: We will have you fill out various questionnaires and measure your resting blood pressure, heart rate, height, weight, and waist circumference. You will complete a short treadmill walking test at 2 and 3 mph. Lastly, you will be oriented to a pedometer, log, and one-day diary and sent off to complete a seven-day physical activity monitoring period.
On the second visit: Two weeks after your first visit, you will receive a bone mineral density and body composition test. Please wear/bring clothing free of metal for this test. This test will expose you to a very small dose of radiation to take a picture of your bones. The amount of radiation exposure is similar to the amount you would accumulate if your spent the whole day out in the sun. We will draw a small sample of blood to analyze your blood sugar and cholesterol levels. There will also be several pencil/paper surveys for you to complete. After the physiological data has been collected you will be randomized into one of three groups. You will be orientated to the use of a pedometer and/or a website and/or physical activity log that you will be using daily for 12-weeks. The goal of the program is to slowly increase the number of steps you take per week.
On the third visit: Upon completion of the 12-week intervention, you will repeat the bone mineral density and body composition test as well as the blood draw, treadmill walking test, and surveys.
Participation in this study includes monthly gift cards to those who make their goals and monetary compensation for completing the intervention.
Project Intensity
Study description:This reserach study is designed to determine the ability of an accelerometer to predict intensity of physical activity across age groups. You will be one of 210 individuals taking part in this study between the ages of 20-80 years.
On the day of your testing session: We will measure your height, weight, resting heart rate and resting blood pressure. We will aslo ask you to provide us with some information on your health history and the health history of your family. We will ask you to walk on a treadmill for approximately 30 minutes at a low to moderate intensity (2.0 mph up to 4 mph in half mile increments and then potentially 6.0, 7.0 mph or until you reach 85% of your estimated heart rate max).
Participation in this study includes the gift of a coffee/tea mug.
