The Comparison of a Technology-Based System and an In-Person Behavioral Weight Loss Intervention

The Comparison of a Technology-Based System and an In-Person Behavioral Weight Loss Intervention

The primary aim of this study is to compare the changes in body weight between a technology-based system, an in-person behavioral weight loss intervention, and a combination of both during a 12 month behavioral weight loss intervention in adults. Sedentary, healthy overweight and obese adults will be recruited to participate. Assessments will be conducted at 0, 6, and 12 months. This is a randomized trial in which participants will be randomized to one of three groups: standard behavioral weight loss (SBWL), standard behavioral weight loss plus technology (SBWL+TECH), and technology alone alone (TECH).

Inclusion Criteria:

• ages of 21-55 years
• Body mass index (BMI) between 25-39.9 kg/m2

Exclusion Criteria:

• Currently pregnant, pregnant in the last 6 months, or plan on becoming pregnant in the next 6 months.
• Currently participating in regular exercise for over 60 minutes/week.
• Taking any medications that affect body weight or metabolism (e.g. synthroid).
• Have any physical limitations that would prevent exercise.
• Currently being treated for coronary heart disease, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, or cancer.
• Have a history of myocardial infarction or other heart-related surgeries.
• Have a resting systolic blood pressure > 150 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure of > 100 mmHg or currently taking any medications that affect blood pressure or heart rate (e.g. beta blockers).
• Currently enrolled in a commercial weight loss program, participating in another weight loss study, or in a weight loss study in the last 12 months.
• Have lost > 5% of current body weight in the past 6 months.
• Currently being treated for any psychological problems or taking any psychotropic medication.
• Currently do not have access to a computer and the Internet that can be used for this study. This requires a PC computer, the ability to load software for the technology system, an existing internet connection provided by the participant, and a dedicated USB port to allow the armband from the technology system to be connected to the computer for the download of information.