Journalists: For links to video and audio files, see the bottom of this post.
A rolling laboratory some people have nicknamed the “Obesity Prevention Bus” is bringing fitness to the office.
The University of Minnesota and Mayo Clinic today revealed the first phase of a multi-step study designed to make increased activity part of our everyday lives.
The motor-home sized lab carries all the tools to measure body mass, fat content and fitness levels.
A couple dozen Minneapolis office workers are the first volunteers to be studied to see if adding stand-up work stations can help make them happier and healthier.
In addition to weight and fitness levels… researchers are tracking changes in mood, appetite and stress.
The study’s researchers say finding ways to make our workday less sedentary is becoming a matter of survival in light of the growing obesity epidemic and the economic pinch caused by soaring healthcare costs.
Journalists: click here for a suggested script.
Journalists: The following video and audio clips are available for download and use in your stories.
James Levine, M.D.: MOV MP3
Mayo Clinic
Steven Stovitz, M.D.: MOV MP3
University of Minnesota
Department of Family Medicine and Community Health
Neer Dutta: MOV MP3
University of Minnesota Study Coordinator
Mary Breitenstein: MOV MP3
Study Volunteer
Broll (unedited) of testing and study volunteers at work: MOV
I am student wondering if I could talk to you more about this article and wondering more about the obesity prevention bus! I am doing a large project for my leadership course on obesity and overweight students on college campuses more specifically. But also taking a look at children and adults. Thanks!! Please email me at my email