Combating Obesity for Alachua County’s Health
COACH is Alachua County’s health initiative on combating obesity. It was organized by the Alachua County Medical Society and Alliance.
ANALYSIS OF THE WEEKLY WELLNESS WALK SURVEY - 2014
The overall participation rate on our survey was 69/280 walkers = 25%
However, if one analyzes participation by the number of walks, the following obtains.
0-2 walks = 7%
3-5 walks = 28%
6-8 walks =71%
9-10 walks = 74%
Most of the survey respondents were clearly the most frequent walkers in our Weekly Wellness Walks (compare graph of Walker Frequency on following page). Therefore, the results of the survey mainly reflect the opinions of those who walked 6 or more walks. Those who walked less than 6 walks accounted for 43% of the total of survey participants, but represented only 8% of walkers in that subgroup. Two survey participants did not walk at all.
It is valuable to note that most who responded to the survey are still walking (90%).
Other interesting survey observations.........Only 50% viewed our website, Only 60% got a log book (3 walks required) , while 80% got a pedometer (2 walks required). Components of the Walk Program that were most important were participating with others, talking and walking. Benefits included better physical condition, improved self-image, and weight control, change in sedentary habit and making new friends.
Since the greatest impact of our walks was found in those who participated in 6 or more walks (90% still walking), focusing on encouraging participation in multiple walk in future efforts seems likely to maximize behavioral change. It is important to note that, of the whole group of survey respondents, nearly 1/4 of the walkers are still walking.
Thank you for your support in making the Wellness Walks a success.
Sincerely,
Norman S. Levy, MD, PhD Roslyn F. Levy
Alachua County Medical Society Alachua County Medical Alliance
To see the survey data, push the button below
