Promoting participation in physical activity through Snacktivity: A qualitative mixed methods study
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SUBMITTER: Krouwel M
PROVIDER: S-EPMC10495025 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Jan
REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature
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Project description:BackgroundAdults should achieve a minimum of 150 min of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity per week, but many people do not achieve this. Changes to international guidance have removed the requirement to complete physical activity in bouts of at least 10 min. Snacktivity is a novel and complementary approach that could motivate people to be physically active. It focuses on promoting shorter (2-5 min) and more frequent bouts, or 'snacks' of physical activity throughout the day. It is not known whether promoting physical activity in shorter bouts is acceptable to the public, or whether it likely to translate into health behaviour change.MethodsAs part of a larger research programme, this study explored the merits of using small bouts of physical activity to help the public become physically active (the Snacktivity™ programme). Thirty-one inactive adults used the approach for five days then participated in semi- structured interviews about their experiences. The data were analysed using the Framework approach.ResultsWhilst participants highlighted some potential barriers to implementation, they expressed the ease with which Snacktivity could be achieved, which gave them a new awareness of opportunities to do more physical activity throughout the day. Participants raised the importance of habit formation to achieve regular small bouts of physical activity.ConclusionsFindings demonstrated that participants liked the Snacktivity concept and viewed it as a motivating approach. Guidance about physical activity must lead to advice that has the best chance of preserving and promoting health and Snacktivity has potential to meet this ambition.
| S-EPMC8592280 | biostudies-literature
Project description:BackgroundRegular physical activity (PA) is crucial for well-being; however, healthy habits are difficult to create and maintain. Interventions delivered via conversational agents (eg, chatbots or virtual agents) are a novel and potentially accessible way to promote PA. Thus, it is important to understand the evolving landscape of research that uses conversational agents.ObjectiveThis mixed methods systematic review aims to summarize the usability and effectiveness of conversational agents in promoting PA, describe common theories and intervention components used, and identify areas for further development.MethodsWe conducted a mixed methods systematic review. We searched seven electronic databases (PsycINFO, PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, ACM Digital Library, Scopus, and Web of Science) for quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods studies that conveyed primary research on automated conversational agents designed to increase PA. The studies were independently screened, and their methodological quality was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool by 2 reviewers. Data on intervention impact and effectiveness, treatment characteristics, and challenges were extracted and analyzed using parallel-results convergent synthesis and narrative summary.ResultsIn total, 255 studies were identified, 7.8% (20) of which met our inclusion criteria. The methodological quality of the studies was varied. Overall, conversational agents had moderate usability and feasibility. Those that were evaluated through randomized controlled trials were found to be effective in promoting PA. Common challenges facing interventions were repetitive program content, high attrition, technical issues, and safety and privacy concerns.ConclusionsConversational agents hold promise for PA interventions. However, there is a lack of rigorous research on long-term intervention effectiveness and patient safety. Future interventions should be based on evidence-informed theories and treatment approaches and should address users' desires for program variety, natural language processing, delivery via mobile devices, and safety and privacy concerns.
| S-EPMC8479596 | biostudies-literature
Project description:BackgroundThe importance of physical activity in improving physical and mental health has been emphasized in many studies. Researchers in Saudi Arabia have reported an increase in physical inactivity among Saudis, especially among University female population. Current efforts in the field in Saudi Arabia have yet to explore barriers and facilitators that influence female University student's participation in physical activity. This study aims to provide an assessment of the situation regarding physical activity among female University students in Saudi Arabia.MethodsThis mixed method study preceded a participatory action research initiative. The first part of the mixed method consisted of a cross-sectional survey of 375 female University students in Saudi Arabia who completed the short form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. The second part consisted of semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 14 female University students and 16 female exercise trainers.ResultsResults showed that most participants (91%) spent more time in walking activity compared to moderate (66%) and vigorous activity (57%) for at least 10 min at a time over a period of 7 days. Results showed that 70% of participants did not meet the WHO recommendation of 150 min per week of moderate activity, while around 62% of participants did not meet the WHO recommendation of 75 min per week of vigorous activity. Barriers to participation included limited facilities for physical activities, academic workload, gender role, and the need to adhere to cultural standards. Facilitators included valuing positive results, general health concerns, and family support.ConclusionKnowledge gained from this study might support organizations and public health authorities to develop physical activity interventions that better address Saudi women's perceived needs. These findings are an important contribution to current knowledge in light of recent advances in women's rights in Saudi Arabia.
| S-EPMC8971611 | biostudies-literature
Project description:PurposeHead and neck cancer (HaNC) can be debilitating, resulting in high symptom burden. Physical activity (PA) can improve quality of life; however, less than 9% of HaNC patients are physically active. This study explored barriers to, and facilitators of, PA promotion and participation for HaNC patients.MethodsSemi-structured interviews with patients, family members and healthcare professionals were conducted. A questionnaire was used to measure patients' self-reported self-efficacy (The General Self-Efficacy Scale) and patients' and healthcare professionals' self-reported PA (The International PA Questionnaire - Short Form). Qualitative data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis and quantitative data were analysed descriptively. Data were synthesised drawing on the Capability-Opportunity-Motivation-Behaviour model and the Theoretical Domains Framework.ResultsTwenty-eight patients, 10 family members and 18 healthcare professionals participated. Most patients self-reported moderate-to-high levels of PA and self-efficacy. Professionals self-reported high levels of PA. Patients were unaware of the benefits of PA for managing side effects and improving quality of life. Family members and professionals were fearful of patients causing themselves harm by being physically active (reflective motivation and beliefs about consequences). Some professionals did not consider it within their role to promote PA to HaNC patients. Many professionals stated they required training in PA promotion, and patients and family members stated they required information and guidance (psychological capability and knowledge).ConclusionThe responsibility of PA promotion is multidisciplinary and educating patients on the benefits and safety of PA may mitigate treatment-related side effects and improve quality of life. Future research should explore if barriers to, and facilitators of, PA behaviour change over a patient's treatment trajectory.
| S-EPMC11788227 | biostudies-literature
Project description:BackgroundMany people do not meet the recommended health guidance of participation in a minimum of 150-300 min of moderate intensity physical activity per week, often promoted as at least 30 min of physical activity on 5 days of the week. This is concerning and highlights the importance of finding innovative ways to help people to be physically active each day. Snacktivity™ is a novel approach that aims to encourage people to do small, 2-5 min bouts of physical activity 'snacks' throughout the whole day, such that they achieve at least 150 min of moderate intensity activity per week. However, before it can be recommended, there is a need to explore whether the concept is acceptable to the public.MethodsA survey to assess the views of the public about Snacktivity™ was distributed to adult patients registered at six general practices in the West Midlands, UK and to health care employees in the same region.ResultsA total of 5989 surveys were sent to patients, of which 558 were returned (9.3%). A further 166 surveys were completed by health care employees. A total of 85% of respondents liked the Snacktivity™ concept. The flexibility of the approach was highly rated. A high proportion of participants (61%) reported that the ability to self-monitor their behaviour would help them to do Snacktivity™ throughout their day. Physically inactive participants perceived that Snacktivity™ would help to increase their physical activity, more than those who were physically active (OR = 0.41, 95% CI: 0.25-0.67). Approximately 90% of respondents perceived that Snacktivity™ was easy to do on a non-working day compared to 60% on a working day. Aerobic activity 'snacks' were preferred to those which were strength based.ConclusionsThe Snacktivity™ approach to promoting physical activity was viewed positively by the public and interventions to test the merits of such an approach now need to be developed and tested in a variety of everyday contexts.
| S-EPMC8964250 | biostudies-literature
Project description:ObjectiveHelping people to change their health behaviours is becoming a greater feature within the role of health professionals, including through whole system initiatives such as Making Every Contact Count. Health services provide an ideal setting to routinely promote health behaviours, including physical activity. Snacktivity is a novel approach that promotes small bouts of physical activity (activity snacks) throughout the day. This study explored health professionals' initial experiences of delivering a Snacktivity intervention to promote physical activity within routine health consultations. A further aim was to investigate health professionals' ability/fidelity in delivering the Snacktivity intervention to their patients.DesignSemistructured interviews (n=11) and audio recording of consultations (n=46).Setting and participantsHealthcare professionals from a variety of specialisms who delivered the Snacktivity intervention within patient consultations.ResultsAnalyses revealed two higher-level themes of interest: (1) health professionals' conceptualisation of Snacktivity (subthemes: observations/reflections about patients' understanding, engagement and enthusiasm for delivering the Snacktivity intervention) and (2) health professionals' understanding of Snacktivity and experience in delivering the intervention (subthemes: delivering Snacktivity; limitations, challenges and possible improvements). Consultation audio recordings demonstrated health professionals delivered the Snacktivity intervention with high levels of fidelity. Health professionals were proficient and supportive of delivering the Snacktivity intervention within consultations although practical barriers to implementation such as time constraints were raised, and confidence in doing so was mixed.ConclusionsHealth professionals were proficient and supportive of delivering the Snacktivity intervention within consultations. The primary barrier to implementation was the time to deliver it, however, gaining greater experience in the intervention and improving behaviour change counselling skills may reduce this barrier.Trial registration numberISRCTN64851242.
| S-EPMC11499785 | biostudies-literature
Project description:To explore reasons for non-participation in a primary care-based physical activity trial and understand how these may contribute to recruitment of non-representative research samples. We also aimed to elicit non-participants' own recommendations for enhancing trial uptake in primary care.Semistructured telephone interviews with non-participants to a randomised controlled trial of a very brief intervention for promoting physical activity conducted in primary care (the Very Brief Interventions trial), with thematic analysis of interview transcripts.5 general practice (GP) surgeries in the East of England, UK.Interviews were completed with 10 female and 6 male non-participants of white ethnicity and aged between 40 and 71 years. 13 of the 16 interviewees were either active or moderately active according to the GP Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPPAQ).Interviewees discussed a range of reasons for non-participation. These included beliefs surrounding the personal relevance of the trial based on preconceptions of intervention content. Many interviewees considered themselves either sufficiently active or too functionally limited to increase activity levels further, so rendering participation pointless in their view. Other identified barriers included a lack of free time, for trial participation and for increasing physical activity, and dissatisfaction with appointment scheduling systems in place at GP surgeries. Interviewees questioned the appropriateness of primary care as a context for delivering interventions to promote physical activity. In general, interviewees were positively disposed towards the idea of trial participation, especially if personal benefits are made salient, but suggested that interventions could be delivered in a different setting such as the internet.To increase participation in physical activity promotion trials conducted in primary care, the content of invitation materials and procedures for contacting potential participants require reconsideration. Specific recommendations include streamlining intervention materials and enhancing their relevance to the health concerns of invitees.ISRCTN72691150; Pre-results.
| S-EPMC4885436 | biostudies-other
Project description:ObjectivesTo gain deeper knowledge of factors promoting physical activity in women with fibromyalgia.DesignA qualitative study based on semistructured in-depth individual interviews. Analysed using qualitative content analysis.ParticipantsFourteen women with fibromyalgia, age 38-65, recruited from a previous randomised controlled trial investigating the effects of person-centred progressive resistance exercise compared with relaxation therapy.SettingInterviews were conducted in a hospital setting.ResultsThe analysis resulted in four categories: a desire to be physically active, finding the proper level and creating proper conditions, managing pain and getting it done.ConclusionThis study reveals several factors both personal and environmental, which promote the ability to be physically active when living with pain and other symptoms of fibromyalgia. The participants expressed that, although they had a desire to be physically active, they needed support and guidance from a professional with adequate knowledge to help them find the proper level of exercise. They also expressed a need for the professional to understand their preferences, and to use these preferences as a basis for creating the proper conditions, helping them learn to manage pain and supporting them in getting the exercise done.
| S-EPMC7418681 | biostudies-literature
Project description:BackgroundGhana is experiencing an epidemiological shift in public health issues toward non-communicable diseases that are underpinned by modifiable health behaviors. Physical activity rates have decreased, especially among older adults, coinciding with urbanization and an increase in sedentary work. Community-based physical activity programs are a recommended method of increasing physical activity levels; however, none currently exist in Ghana. The aim of this exploratory study was to determine older Ghanaian adults' perceptions of physical activity and asses fit and feasibility of adapting and delivering a physical activity program for this population.MethodsThrough a concurrent exploratory mixed-methods design, data were gathered from Ghanaian older adults (N = 123) during focus groups (N = 10) conducted at one diabetes clinic and nine churches across three urban areas. Qualitative data were collected using a semi-structured script that prompted for responses related to physical activity perceptions and the fit and feasibility of physical activity program characteristics. Quantitative data were collected through a questionnaire assessing participant demographics, physical activity levels, and health rating as well as physical activity knowledge and self-efficacy.ResultsFindings indicate that older adults in Ghana have a need for and an interest in physical activity promotion. Participants had positive perceptions of being physically active, but were unaware of physical activity guidelines and how to meet them. Peer influence and health care providers' recommendations were motivating factors for physical activity participation. As for desired physical activity program characteristics, participants expressed interest in group-based activities and becoming peer leaders and preference for a church-based program.ConclusionsThe results suggest that a group-based physical activity program encouraged by health care providers and delivered at churches through a train-the-trainer model would be well received by aging adults from three urban areas of Ghana. In addition, education on physical activity types is needed, along with better dissemination and education on Ministry of Health physical activity guidelines. This exploratory work highlights preliminary support for a group- and community-based physical activity program for the aging population in Ghana. Beginning with the end in mind, these program characteristics should be considered when adopting, adapting, and implementing an intervention with this population.
| S-EPMC6419803 | biostudies-literature
Project description:BackgroundAdolescents physical activity is associated with current and future health benefits, reduction of cardio-vascular risk factors, improved bone mineral density, and mental health. The aim of the current study is to assess physical activity status and its factors among adolescents in Arba Minch and Jinka towns, Southern Ethiopia.MethodsThe study was conducted on 1255 randomly selected schools adolescents of Arba Minch and Jinka town by employing a mixed method. The qualitative data was obtained by Focus Group Discussion. Multiple linear regressions were done to identify factors affecting physical activity. Codes, sub-categories, and main categories were derived from the transcripts and presented in narrative ways to describe adolescent student's perception on physical activity, its barriers and facilitators by comparing with quantitative findings.ResultsThe mean physical activity level was 2.08 (95% CI: 2.04-2.12). A student's self-perception about being physically active, being a member of a sport or fitness team, and engaging in after-school activity to earn money, being older, sex, a self-perception of being healthy, higher levels of vegetable and fruit consumption, having someone who encouraged physical activity, perceiving one's family as being active, self-perception of not being overweight and attending schools that have a sports/playground were factors associated with physical activity. The qualitative finding showed a related finding. Poor awareness on the recommended physical activity, benefits of physical activity, lack of interest, restrictions from family members, peers and the community, uncomfortable environment were barriers to physical activity.Conclusion and recommendationThe physical activity level of adolescents was low. Age, sex, a positive self-perception about PA and general health, and perception about one's family PA, healthy eating practice, and the presence of role model were associated factors. Lack of self-motivation, interest and family restrictions were barriers to physical activity. PA promotion should be made by incorporating PA into school health programs and strengthening the existing school curriculum.
| S-EPMC10635445 | biostudies-literature