Table 1 Inclusion and exclusion criteria

Males and females aged 18 years or over

Any spinal surgery in the past 12 months

LBP (i.e. between the 12th costal margin and gluteal fold with or without associated leg pain) persisting for a minimum of three months

Evidence of nerve root, spinal cord, or cauda equina compression assessed by a physiotherapist

Physically able to participate in a walking programme as determined by the PAR-Q*

Current lower extremity musculoskeletal injury, cardiorespiratory or other medical condition that may be a contraindication to increasing physical activity levels

Average daily walking is fewer than 7500 steps as determined by a one week pedometer trial

History of serious psychological or psychiatric illness

Current pregnancy

Average daily walking is greater than 7500 steps as determined by a one week pedometer trial