The effectiveness of a point-of-decision prompt in deterring sedentary behavior.

Individuals using a university library were observed using stairs or elevators to travel up one to three floors. After a baseline assessment, a sign was posted by the elevator to discourage elevator use over a five-week period. A hierarchical log linear analysis indicated that stair use increased significantly after the intervention moderated by day of the week, sex, and age. The study suggests that point-of-decision prompts to deter sedentary activity may be effective.