A pilot study to promote walking among obese and overweight individuals: walking buses for adults.

OBJECTIVE

To assess whether the concept of a walking bus program is a viable option for increasing physical activity and weight loss among overweight and obese adults

METHODS

A pilot study was conducted where 45overweight and obese participants were monitored over an 8 week period and their walking bus use and weight changes were measured longitudinally.

RESULTS

Participants who utilized the walking bus were more likely than those who did not use the walking bus to lose weight. Black walking bus users were less likely to lose weight than non-black walking bus users. 98% of participants said they would likely participate in a walking bus program again.

CONCLUSIONS

Walking buses programs are a viable option to promote weight loss among overweight and obese adults.