ERIC Number: EJ799715
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2008
Pages: 7
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0714-9808
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Available Date: N/A
Mall Walking as a Physical Activity Option: Results of a Pilot Project
Culos-Reed, S. Nicole; Stephenson, Lynette; Doyle-Baker, Patricia K.; Dickinson, James A.
Canadian Journal on Aging, v27 n1 p81-87 2008
The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility and benefits (fitness and quality of life) of an 8-week mall-walking program. A total of 52 participants ( n = 39 at post-testing) took part in the pilot project (mean age = 66.4; range 46-83 years), with an overall attendance rate of 62.4 per cent. Participants self-selected pace, time, and frequency. Fitness measures, physical activity behaviour, and quality of life were assessed pre- and post-program. Results indicate a significant improvement in physical activity behaviour and most fitness indices. No quality-of-life changes were found, likely due to the above-norm values at baseline. Overall, this pilot project supports the feasibility of and positive health improvements associated with a mall-walking program. Such programs should be considered as part of health-promotion programs, especially for the aging population.
Descriptors: Physical Activities, Health Promotion, Pilot Projects, Quality of Life, Program Effectiveness, Older Adults, Physical Fitness, Physical Health
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Evaluative
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
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