Using a State-wide Initiative to Disseminate Effective Behavioral Weight Loss Strategies: Study 5

Does Early Intervention Improve Weight Loss Outcomes Among Individuals Enrolled in an Internet-based Weight Loss Program?

The purpose of this study is to examine whether providing additional intervention support to individuals with lower than expected weight loss within the initial stages of an internet-based behavioral weight loss program improves weight loss outcomes at Week 12, compared to the internet program alone.

Inclusion Criteria:

• age 18-70 years
• BMI >=25 kg/m2
• No health problems that make weight loss or unsupervised exercise unsafe
• English speaking
• Access to computer/internet

Exclusion Criteria:

• report a heart condition, chest pain during periods of activity or rest, or loss of consciousness on the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire 62 (PAR-Q; items 1-4).
• Individuals endorsing joint problems, prescription medication use or other medical conditions that could limit exercise will be required to obtain written consent to participate from a health care provider
• are currently pregnant or intend to become pregnant in the next 12 months
• are planning to move outside of the state within the next 4 months