Health Behaviors of YMCA Members
Author Information
Author(s): Kaphingst Kimberly A, Bennett Gary G, Sorensen Glorian, Kaphingst Karen M, O'Neil Amy E, McInnis Kyle
Primary Institution: Center for Community-Based Research, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Hypothesis
Short-term members would be less likely to meet physical activity, dietary, and weight recommendations compared to long-term members.
Conclusion
There is a need for a weight control intervention among YMCA members, as many are overweight or obese and do not meet dietary recommendations.
Supporting Evidence
- 89% of short-term and 94% of long-term members met physical activity recommendations.
- Only 24% of short-term and 19% of long-term members met fruit and vegetable consumption recommendations.
- More than half of the respondents were overweight or obese.
- Short-term members had less education and lower household incomes than long-term members.
- Females had lower BMI and reported less physical activity than males.
Takeaway
This study looked at how people at a YMCA eat and exercise. It found that many want to be healthier but need help to do it.
Methodology
A survey was conducted with 135 randomly selected YMCA members to assess their physical activity, dietary behaviors, and BMI.
Potential Biases
Social desirability bias may have affected self-reports of physical activity and weight.
Limitations
The study had a low response rate and relied on self-reported data, which may be biased.
Participant Demographics
62% female, diverse in race/ethnicity and income, with varying education levels.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.02
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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