WALK 2.0: Using Web 2.0 applications to promote health related physical activity

To determine the relative efficacy of web 2.0 in comparison to existing internet based interventions, the trial will consist of two intervention groups. Participants in both of these groups will receive a pedometer to monitor and record their daily coincidental physical activity regimen for the duration of the trial (eighteen months). The primary intervention group will receive access to an interactive website with web 2.0 content including streams, social media connectivity and other innovative content. 168 participants will be recruited to this group. The comparative intervention group will receive access to an existing website without web 2.0 content. Participants will be able to contribute to forums and record their steps to the website, but will not have access to social media or innovative content. 168 participants will be recruited to this group. Participants will be able to access the website allocated to their intervention group for the duration of the project. Time spent interacting with the website is self selected and internet engagement (number of hits, session duration) will be monitored and, combined with self reported physical activity patterns, used to support the utility of the site in promoting physical activity. Objective outcome measures (Weight, BMI and Physical activity) will be collected three times over the course of the study (3 months, 12 months and 18 months). To assess physical activity objectively, participants will be asked to wear an activity monitor during waking hours for 5 days during the outcome measurements. Upon completing recruitment for the RCT, an Ecological trial of the websites will be conducted in 2890 voluntary participants. This study will test the recruitment and retention capabilities of the two interventions and the effect on physical activity levels and has been registered separately.