How do different interventions impact stair climbing? A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to analyze the effect of interventions to increase stair use. Study Design: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: An online search was conducted in January 2021 in five databases (Web of Science, SPORTDiscus, MedLine/PubMed, PsycINFO, and CINAHL). Experimental studies (randomized and non-randomized) conducted in adults, which provided stair use measures with pre- and post-intervention periods were included. A random-effect meta-analysis, as well as subgroup analyses were conducted to evaluate the quantitative effect of interventions on stair use. Results: Overall, 34 studies were included in qualitative analyses, and 15 in the meta-analysis. Most of the studies were conducted in Europe and private settings (e.g., office buildings). Overall, interventions increased stair use in adults (odds ratio (OR) 1.48; 95% confidence intervals (CI) 1.38–1.58; I2 = 99.6%). Subgroup analyses showed that interventions increased stair use regardless of the continent and observer type (manual or electronic). However, different settings (shopping malls and office buildings), as well as studies (time of intervention) and intervention characteristics (sign size and location, message characters) were associated with increased stair use. Conclusions: Different interventions can increase stair use in several continents and settings. Sign and message characteristics should be considered when designing interventions or policies to promote physical activity by increasing stair use.

Applying a deterrence nudge strategy for promoting stair usage in a university setting

“…18 Recent systematic reviews have shown that point-of-decision prompts (PODPs) effectively increase the likelihood of stair usage instead of elevators or escalators among various populations, including university students. 19,20,21 PODPs are signs placed near elevators, escalators, or stairwells that encourage people to use the stairs. Jennings et al not only provided an undated review regarding various interventions to increase stair usage, but also explored differences in intervention components that may affect effectiveness of stair use interventions.…”