Dr Ron Wilson and colleagues Linda Trinh, Heather MacLeod Williams, Alison J. Sum, and Patti-Jean Naylor have recently published the article “Physicians promoting physical activity using pedometers and community partnerships: A real world trial” in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.

A 6-week physical activity intervention was delivered to 152 inactive patients who were recruited in physician waiting rooms, counseled by their physicians, provided with a pedometer, and referred to a community action site at their local recreation centre for further support. Physical activity was measured at baseline and follow-up using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. 

Follow-up interviews were conducted with physicians and recreation representatives on the challenges and benefits associated with the intervention. The authors conclude that a pedometer-based phy­sical activity intervention delivered by physicians in partnership with a community physical activity stakeholder is feasible and warrants further research. 

Long-term maintenance of this intervention would require re­sources for pedometers and ongoing contact and communication between the physicians and community action site to ensure availability of community supports.

The article was published online 31 January 2011. doi: 10.1136/bjsm.2009.069567.