The effectiveness of an annual nationally delivered workplace step count challenge on changing step counts: Findings from four years of delivery

Abstract

Paths for All’s 8-week online Workplace Step Count Challenge (SCC) is a flagship program of Scotland’s National Walking Strategy. The aim of this study was to examine changes in step counts throughout the duration of the SCC, across four years of delivery. Participants were those who registered for the 2015–2018 SCCs, and reported demographic data at registration. Participants self-reported their device-measured step count for each day of the SCC. Following data screening, mean daily steps for each week were calculated. Linear mixed models (R nlme procedure), controlling for the within subject nature of the step count measure, were used to explore changes in steps over time. Gender and age group (< 45 years; ≥ 45 years) were entered into a subsequent model. Separate models were created for each year of the SCC and for all years combined. Participants (n = 10,183) were predominantly women (76.8%), aged < 45 (54.6%) and ≥ 45 years. In general, steps increased each week compared to week 1 (p < 0.001), with a significant increase evident at all but seven of 28 data points. Across the four years of SCC, the increase in steps at week 8 compared to week 1 ranged from 506 to 1223 steps per day, making a substantial contribution to the recommended physical activity levels for health. There was no consistent age or gender effect. The findings provide support for the continued investment in such workplace interventions.