Resistance Training Behavior Is Enhanced With Digital Behavior Change Coaching: A Randomized Controlled Trial With Novice Adults

Abstract

Background: Approximately a third of US adults meet the physical activity guidelines of engaging in resistance training 2 times per week, yet few studies have examined how to increase participation rates. The present randomized control trial compared a remotely delivered coaching intervention with an education only control group. Methods: Eligible participants completed 2 remotely delivered Zoom-based personal training sessions during a 1-week run-in period. Participants randomized to the intervention group received synchronous weekly behavioral video coaching sessions over Zoom, whereas the control group received no further contact. Days of resistance training completed were assessed at baseline (pre), 4 weeks (post), and 8 weeks (follow-up). Linear mixed models were used to examine group differences at each time point and within-group differences over time. Results: There were significant between-group differences favoring the intervention, at posttest for both the previous week (b = 0.71, SE = 0.23; P = .002) and the previous 4 weeks (b = 2.54, SE = 0.87; P = .003) but not at the follow-up period for either the last week (b = 0.15, SE = 0.23; P = .520) or the last 4 weeks (b = 0.68, SE = 0.88; P = .443). Conclusion: The present study showed that by providing participants with equipment, skill, and in the case of the intervention group, a remote coaching intervention, resistance training participation increased.