Recruitment, screening, and baseline participant characteristics in the WALK 2.0 Study: A randomized controlled trial using web 2.0 applications to promote physical activity

Objective: To describe the recruitment methods and enrollment rates, the screening methods, and the baseline characteristics of a sample of adults participating in the WALK 2.0 Study, 3-arm randomized controlled trial of a Web 2.0 based physical activity intervention. Methods: A two-fold recruitment plan was developed and implemented, including a direct mail-out to an extract from the Australian Electoral Commission electoral roll, and other supplementary methods including email and telephone. Physical activity screening involved two steps: a validated single-item self-report instrument and the follow-up Active Australia Questionnaire. Readiness for physical activity participation was also based on a two-step process; administering the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire and, where needed, further clearance from a medical practitioner. Results: Across all recruitment methods, a total of 1,244 participants expressed interest in participating, of which 656 were deemed eligible. Of these, 504 were enrolled in the WALK 2.0 trial (77% enrollment rate) and randomized to the WALK 1.0 group (n = 165), the WALK 2.0 group (n =168), or the Logbook group (n = 171). Mean age of the total sample was 50.8 years, with 65.2% female and 79.1% born in Australia. Conclusion: The results of this recruitment process demonstrate the successful use of multiple strategies to obtain a diverse sample of adults eligible to take part in a web-based physical activity intervention. The use of 1 dual screening processes ensured safe participation in the intervention. This approach to recruitment and physical activity screening can be used as a model for further trials.