Advisor(s)

Mary E. Watson

Contributor(s)

Annemarie C. Sullivan

Date of Award

2008

Date Accepted

5-2008

Degree Grantor

Northeastern University

Degree Level

M.S.

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department or Academic Unit

Bouvé College of Health Sciences. School of Health Professions.

Keywords

Clinical exercise physiology, Weight loss

Subject Categories

Obesity--Case studies, Weight loss, College students--Case studies

Disciplines

Life Sciences

Abstract

A Healthy and Competitive Approach to Weight Loss. M.S. in Clinical Exercise Physiology, 2008(M.E. Watson). Purpose: To investigate the effectiveness of an 11-week weight loss competition on two groups of obese college students. Methods: Subjects (N=20) were divided into two cohorts by semester of participation. Maximal exercise tests, anthropometric measurements, field tests, and sub-maximal strength tests were used to design exercise programs and test changes in fitness. Independent and paired t-tests compared the cohorts, and changes in subjects' pre and post fitness and questionnaire results. The association of program success and weight loss was analyzed using bivariate correlation. Results: There was no statistical difference in mean weight loss between the two groups Spring (m=13.14+12.70 lbs) and Fall (m=12.16+8.33 lbs), p=.839. Maximal Oxygen Uptake (VO2max) (p=.000), 12-min walk (p=.000), BIA (p=.001), upper body (p=.026), and lower body strength (p=.001) improved significantly. Abdomen (p=.124) and hip measurements (p=.192) failed to show a significant improvement. Rate Your Plate (p=.000), and moderate (p=.026) and vigorous activity questionnaires (p=.005) showed a statistically significant improvement, while recreational activity (p=.227) did not. A moderately strong correlation between program success and weight loss was observed. Conclusion: This program was effective in helping students lose weight and improve their fitness levels, while competition success correlated with weight loss.

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Rights Holder

Kristen M. Miller


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