The Minnesota GEMS program

Initiative Description: An after-school intervention was conducted twice a week for 12 weeks, and focused on increasing physical activity and healthy eating for African-American girls. A family component was also included. Girls in the control group received a program over 12 weeks unrelated to nutrition and physical activity.

Study Results: Compared to the control group, girls in the intervention group increased their physical activity level, and improved their behavioral intentions for healthy eating, nutrition knowledge, and physical activity preferences. The parent involvement component was highly rated by girls and parents alike.

Reference: Story, M., Sherwood, N. E., Himes, J. H., Davis, M., Jacobs, D. R, Jr., Cartwright, Y… & Rochon, J. (2003). An after-school obesity prevention program for African-American girls: the Minnesota GEMS pilot study. Ethnicity & Disease,13 (1), S54-64.

Level of Evidence: Very Good