Read, Emily2024-06-142024-06-1420141543-5474https://unbscholar.lib.unb.ca/handle/1882/38002Background: Rural Canadians are at increased risk of metabolic syndrome. Physical inactivity is a primary target for preventing and reversing metabolic syndrome. Adherence to lifestyle interventions may be enhanced using cell phones and self-monitoring technologies. This study investigated the feasibility of a physical activity and self-monitoring intervention targeting high-risk adults in rural Ontario. Methods: Rural adults (n = 25, M=57.0 ± 8.7 years) with ≥2 criteria for metabolic syndrome participated in an 8-week stage-matched physical activity and self-monitoring intervention. Participants monitored blood glucose, blood pressure, weight, and physical activity using self-monitoring devices and BlackberryTM Smart phones. VO2max, stage of change, waist circumference, weight, blood lipids, and HbA1c were measured at weeks 1, 4, and 8. Results: Adherence to self-monitoring was >94%. Participants’ experiences and perceptions of the technology were positive. Mean stage of change increased 1 stage, physical activity increased 26%, and predicted VO2max increased 17% (p<0.05). Significant changes in weight, waist circumference, diastolic blood pressure, LDL cholesterol, and total cholesterol were found. Conclusions: This stage-matched technology intervention for increased physical activity was feasible and effective. Keywords: Metabolic syndrome, physical activity, cardiovascular health, technology, ruralhealthenhttp://purl.org/coar/access_right/c_abf2research articleNursing