Effectiveness of the ACE Mover Method to Promote Healthy Eating

Aim: The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of the ACE Mover Method educational model at modifying healthy eating. Methods: Participants were randomized to one of the following groups: 1. The treatment group (N=14) received a 10wk ACE Mover Method intervention consisting of weekly, client-centered educational sessions focused on healthy eating in addition to performing their 10wk personalized exercise program, and 2) The second group (N=14) performed their 10wk personalized exercise program and served as the controls. Results: After 10wk, cardiometabolic health improved (p < 0.05) in both control and Mover Method groups. With the exception of waist circumference (p < 0.05), the changes from baseline to 10wk across various cardiometabolic health variables were similar for both groups (p > 0.05). Healthy eating scores were similar at baseline between groups. In the control group, there were no significant (p > 0.05) changes between baseline and 10wk in any healthy eating category. In contrast, in the Mover Method group, there were significant improvements (p < 0.05) from baseline to 10wk within all healthy eating categories (fruits, vegetables, fiber). Conclusions: This preliminary data supports the ACE Mover Method as an effective approach for professionals to address and modify behavior change as it pertains to diet in a community setting. This shows that the ACE Mover Method may be an effective approach for modifying behaviors that occur outside of the gym to make healthier lifestyle decisions that can be used to manage or prevent a wide variety of chronic diseases.