Indiana University research at the American College of Sports Medicine annual ...(loyees also reported a lower quality of ...),Health

"Obesity rates have increased while leisure time has stayed the same or increased," said Jeanne Johnston, assistant professor in the School of HPER's Department of Kinesiology. "We're becoming more sedentary in our jobs. As technology improves, it makes it easier or requires us to be closer to our desks."

The study, says Johnston, a co-author, is part of the IU researchers' efforts to use the workplace to stimulate healthier behaviors.

She said employee wellness programs typically come in two forms -- they make available an on-site fitness facility that typically is rarely used, or they make available health and wellness assessments without the resources to help employees implement the recommended changes. The IU researchers are studying a behavioral change program designed to increase employees' activity levels to the light and moderate range, rather than launching them into a full-scale workout regimen.

"The transition is really important, getting to where people are in their stage of exercise and moving them along the continuum," Johnston said. "I'm a big believer that we need to help people move from being sedentary to being active, where they can see the results. Then, they might be motivated to join a fitness facility."

Hornsby will be available to discuss the study, titled "Health, physical activity and quality of life in a worksite population," on Saturday, May 31, from 8 to 9:30 a.m. in Hall B. Information about this study is embargoed until this time. Coauthors include Kenneth A. Glover and Joel M. Stager, also from IU Bloomington. The study was partially funded by CSX Transportation. Hornsby can be reached at Hornsby@indiana.edu. Johnston can be reached at 812-855-5073 and jdjohnst@indiana.edu.