Author(s)

Tracey L. Kelty, Philip J. Morgan, David R. Lubans

Faculty of Education and Arts, School of Education, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia.

This study evaluated the effects of the Girls Recreational Activity Support Program Using Information Technology (GRASP-IT) intervention. This group randomized controlled trial for older adolescent girls (15 years+) combined face-to-face sessions with the use of a social network website, Facebook. Baseline and follow-up measurements were taken for physical activity (5 day pedometer), height, weight, estimated VO2max (Queen’s College Step Test), self-efficacy and peer social support. A process evaluation was conducted and included questionnaires and focus groups interviews. Although, the intervention group increased physical activity (mean 1878 steps/day) the difference between groups was not significant (p = 0.11, d = 0.8). BMI, fitness, self-efficacy and peer support all improved for the intervention group, however, changes were not statistically significant between groups. Although participants enjoyed the face-to- face component, engagement with the on-line component was low. Future interventions that utilize Facebook as a medium for increasing physical activity for adolescent girls require additional strategies to improve engagement and compliance.

Physical Activity; Adolescent Girls; Intervention; Internet

Kelty, T. , Morgan, P. & Lubans, D. (2012). Efficacy and Feasibility of the “Girls’ Recreational Activity Support Program Using Information Technology”: A Pilot Randomised Controlled Trial. Advances in Physical Education, 2, 10-16. doi: 10.4236/ape.2012.21002.