Title

Hockey Fans in Training: A Pilot Pragmatic 1 Randomized Controlled Trial

Authors

Robert Petrella, Western University
Dawn P. Gill, Western University
Guangyong Zou, Western University
Ashleigh De Cruz, Western University
Brendan Riggin, Western University
Cassandra Bartol, Western University
Karen Danylchuk, Western University
Kate Hunt, University of Glasgow
Sally Wyke, University of Glasgow
Cindy M. Gray, University of Glasgow
Christopher Bunn, University of Glasgow
Merrick Zwarenstein, Western University

Category

Lifestyle and the Power of Sport

Publication Date

Fall 12-1-2017

Journal

Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise

Volume

49

Issue

12

First Page

2506

Last Page

2516

URL with Digital Object Identifier

https://doi.org/10.1249/MSS.0000000000001380

Abstract

Introduction Hockey Fans in Training (Hockey FIT) is a gender-sensitized weight loss and healthy lifestyle program. We investigated 1) feasibility of recruiting and retaining overweight and obese men into a pilot pragmatic randomized controlled trial and 2) potential for Hockey FIT to lead to weight loss and improvements in other outcomes at 12 wk and 12 months.

Methods Male fans of two ice hockey teams (35–65 yr; body mass index ≥28 kg·m−2) located in Ontario (Canada) were randomized to intervention (Hockey FIT) or comparator (wait-list control). Hockey FIT includes a 12-wk active phase (weekly, coach-led group meetings including provision of dietary information, practice of behavior change techniques, and safe exercise sessions plus incremental pedometer walking) and a 40-wk minimally supported phase (smartphone app for sustaining physical activity, private online social network, standardized e-mails, booster session/reunion). Measurement at baseline and 12 wk (both groups) and 12 months (intervention group only) included clinical outcomes (e.g., weight) and self-reported physical activity, diet, and self-rated health.

Results Eighty men were recruited in 4 wk; trial retention was >80% at 12 wk and >75% at 12 months. At 12 wk, the intervention group lost 3.6 kg (95% confidence interval, −5.26 to −1.90 kg) more than the comparator group (P < 0.001) and maintained this weight loss to 12 months. The intervention group also demonstrated greater improvements in other clinical measures, physical activity, diet, and self-rated health at 12 wk; most sustained to 12 months.

Conclusions Results suggest feasible recruitment/retention of overweight and obese men in the Hockey FIT program. Results provide evidence for the potential effectiveness of Hockey FIT for weight loss and improved health in at-risk men and, thus, evidence to proceed with a definitive trial.