Evidence-Based Resource Summary

The Community Preventive Services Task Force recommends interventions that include activity monitors to increase physical activity in adults who are overweight or obese. More research is needed, however, to determine whether changes in physical activity are maintained over time. Physical activity interventions that include activity monitors provide participants with a combination of the following: behavioral instruction in the form of counseling, group-based education, or web-based education; and activity monitors that are used to provide regular feedback (i.e., pedometers or accelerometers) and may include enhancements to support or promote physical activity. Interventions must focus on physical activity or promote physical activity within a weight management program. Interventions may include 1 or more follow-up appointments.