Effects of a Workplace-Based Virtual-Run Intervention Among University Employees

Apichai Wattanapisit, Waluka Amaek, Watcharawat Promma, Phatcharawadee Srirug, Uchane Cheangsan, Satit Khwanchum, Wattana Chadakorn, Kanittha Eardmak and Narumon Chadakorn
Additional contact information
Apichai Wattanapisit: School of Medicine, Walailak University, Thasala, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80161, Thailand
Waluka Amaek: Walailak University Running for Health Club, Thasala, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80161, Thailand
Watcharawat Promma: Walailak University Running for Health Club, Thasala, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80161, Thailand
Phatcharawadee Srirug: Walailak University Running for Health Club, Thasala, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80161, Thailand
Uchane Cheangsan: Walailak University Running for Health Club, Thasala, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80161, Thailand
Satit Khwanchum: Walailak University Running for Health Club, Thasala, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80161, Thailand
Wattana Chadakorn: Walailak University Running for Health Club, Thasala, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80161, Thailand
Kanittha Eardmak: Walailak University Running for Health Club, Thasala, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80161, Thailand
Narumon Chadakorn: Walailak University Running for Health Club, Thasala, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80161, Thailand

IJERPH, 2020, vol. 17, issue 8, 1-10

Abstract: Virtual runs (real running or walking activities using online recording platforms) have been popular in the digital age and could have the potential to promote physical activity (PA) in workplaces. We investigated the effects of a virtual-run intervention (VRI) on PA and body compositions among university employees. A three-phase intervention was conducted over 6 months: 0 (pre-intervention), 1 (during intervention), and 2 (post-intervention). Exercise stages of change were assessed in phases 0 and 2. Body compositions (body weight, body mass index, fat mass, percentage of fat mass, fat-free mass, and percentage of fat-free mass) were assessed in phases 0, 1, and 2. Running and walking times were recorded through a mobile application. Forty-seven participants completed the VRI. The number of participants at the maintenance stage increased from 34.04% in phase 0 ( n = 16) to 63.83% in phase 2 ( n = 30). None of the changes in body compositions were significant ( p > 0.05). The median running and walking time among participants at the maintenance stage was 151.85 (interquartile range, 109.15) min/week. Future research should focus on approaches to improve the efficacy of VRIs and their effects on health outcomes.

Keywords: physical activity; running; virtual run; walking; workplace (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2020
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