LIFE’s Innovation Prize: Lose weight with your mobile - 16.03.2010

Professor Arne Astrup from LIFE- Faculty of Life Sciences at University of Copenhagen has been awarded LIFE’s Innovation Prize 2010 for his innovative work in connection with the start-up of a project that actively uses mobile phones in an effort to make positive changes in people’s lifestyles. The innovative project is called Mobile Fitness and is now an independent enterprise. Mobile Fitness has been a success with groups of young people and work groups and in local authorities.

The aim of Mobile Fitness is to motivate participants to change their behaviour. Every day, the participants receive customised information on diet and exercise via their mobile phones. And the fact that advice on nutrition and exercise is always right at hand and is provided in a motivational manner is crucial for achieving a long-term effect.

The Department of Human Nutrition at LIFE- Faculty of Life Sciences has gained significant experience over the years with what works when people need to lose weight or change their lifestyles. One aspect the researchers have found to be important is that lifestyle changes must be made in motivational environments. For example, on a course, at a workshop or in a similar context. This can be a challenge, however, as such initiatives are often expensive. Mobile Fitness has the notable advantage that it is an inexpensive programme to participate in, and it is part of the user’s daily life.

LIFE’s Innovation Prize is awarded every year to a member of the staff or student body who has made a major contribution in the area of innovation and collaboration with the business community.

 

For more information on Mobile Fitness please contact Professor Arne Astrup on tel 3533 2476 or by e-mail  or read about the project at www.mobilefitness.dk