Evolution Of Physical Activity Research Articles

Embodied labors during the state formation of Egypt and Nubia (ca. 4800–1750 BCE): Elucidating transformations in behavioral patterns with entheseal changes

AbstractThroughout Egypt and Nubia's state formation periods (4400–1750 BCE), broad transformations impacted Nile Valley communities, which experienced agricultural consolidation, sedentarization, and more complex social organization. The current study examines the various patterns and levels of physical activity in the skeletal remains of 259 predynastic and early dynastic individuals from Nubia (Northern Dongola Reach) and Egypt (el‐Badari, Naqada, el‐Ballas, and Hu). Using entheseal changes in the upper and lower limbs and non‐parametric tests, we have observed changes in behavior patterns between the fifth and second millennia BCE in the Nile Valley. These transformations include an increased impact on the evolution of physical activity and possibly specialized occupations in the Old Kingdom. In this regard, we discovered differences in activity based on the type of burial and the tasks performed by females compared with males. Furthermore, we found additional evidence to support the hypothesis that the Nubian state of Kerma was based on a highly mobile pastoral way of life.

Evolution of physical activity and body weight changes in breast cancer survivors five years after diagnosis – VICAN 2 & 5 French national surveys

BackgroundRegular physical activity (PA) and healthy body weight have proven benefits on survival in breast cancer (BC) survivors. We aimed to define predictors of long-term PA and weight gain in a representative sample of BC survivors.MethodsData were analysed from 723 women with BC who participated in both the 2012 and 2015 French National VICAN surveys.ResultsFive years after diagnosis, 26.0, 60.6, and 13.4 % of BC survivors reported regular, occasional and no PA, respectively. Moreover, 27.4 % had a weight gain ≥5 kg. In multinomial logistic regressions, regular and occasional PA were both associated with not having depressive disorders, with higher post-traumatic growth, and with a healthy and stable Body Mass Index. Occasional PA was associated with the use of non-conventional medicine, and regular PA with better mental quality of life and normal arm mobility. Weight gain ≥5 kg was associated with younger age, heavier body weight at diagnosis, and lymphedema 5 years after diagnosis.ConclusionsMental well-being is associated with successful long-term patient investment in PA. Psychological support and early management of disease sequelae are needed to help ensure BC survivors engage in and maintain healthy lifestyles.

Physical training in the environment: origin, evolution and reinterpretation modern times

In this article we reflect on the role that occupies the physical training performed in the natural environment as an alternative to maintain and improve the physical condition in our times, highlighting certain ancient, simple and natural practices, bearing in mind that not for being old they are no longer effective. On the other hand we will demystify all this modernist movements that draw public attention or attract the potential customers by being identified with the paleo or the paleotraining” in our case. Before that, however,to have background information on the state of the issue, we will discuss what we know about the genesis and evolution of physical activity in prehistoric societies; as well as the role that has played this type of activity in the ancient societies, and still play in contemporary tribal societies.

The evolution of physical activity: from health to leisure

Introduction: In order to facilitate delivery of a musculo-skeletal (MSK) service in adherence with the evidence base outlined in the National Physical Activity Implementation plan for care pathways, which include physical activity as part of the recognised treatment for many long term conditions and physical limitations due to disability, in a climate of reduced funding and waiting time targets, our department undertook a service wide redesign to deliver a supported continuum of integrated care for our patients, from healthcare to self-management in the community. Practice change implemented: A process of skill mix was undertaken to facilitate the creation of 2 unique roles; Exercise Specialist and Community Health and Activity Officer. The development of these roles included leisure staff in the healthcare setting and healthcare staff in the local authority/leisure environment. Following a substantial pilot, post holders created two symbiotic services; PACE (Physical Activity and Community Education) service within East & Midlothian Physiotherapy service and ACE (Active Choices in East Lothian) in East Lothian Council. These changes ensured patients were fully supported from MSK health care to community, through the development of a clear and simple clinical pathway. Aim and theory of change: 1. Reduce MSK waiting times by challenging conventional models of care 2. Support change of physical activity behaviour in line with Transtheoretical Model of Behaviour Change [1] 3. Normalise activity in the community through promotion of independent lifestyle change Targeted population and stakeholders: The targeted population is all MSK patients. Stakeholders included NHS Lothian, East Lothian Council, Enjoy leisure and 3rd sector organisations. 15th International Conference on Integrated Care, Edinburgh, UK, March 25-27, 2015 1 International Journal of Integrated Care – Volume 15, 27 May – URN:NBN:NL:UI:10-1-117096– http://www.ijic.org/ Timeline: Our model was piloted in 2008. PACE was then established in 2009, and ACE established in 2011. Highlights (innovation, impact, outcomes): This redesign led to: enhanced patient rehabilitation, decreased physiotherapy waiting times, with reduced pressure on review slots; enhancement of partnership working between health and leisure; and increased participation in, and maintenance of, physical activity in the community. Sustainability: Based on average staff costing, this service model allows for 4 times as much service provision to the patient, in comparison to a standard physiotherapy only service, at half the cost. Strong partnerships are essential to sustain this model. Appropriate training of Exercise Specialists is an ongoing issue across leisure, but can be overcome. Working with existing established community groups allows for longevity with smaller financial impact. Transferability: This model of delivery translates to a range of services including MSK, Learning Disability, Mental Health and weight management services, though success is directly dependent on good partnership working, peer leadership, and shared understanding of delivery priorities and therefore implementation may vary between service areas. Discussion and Conclusion: (key findings) Resistance when challenging conventional delivery of care is always a consideration. Clear communication of transparent goals has been essential in mitigating the impact of this on service delivery. Patient feedback has been very positive about the new model of care. This is an excellent example of financial adversity driving transformational change in service delivery facilitating a decrease in waiting time and an increase in capacity. Lessons learned: Establishing common goals with key partners at the outset is essential. Articulating these clearly and concisely to all stakeholders is vital.

The Evolution of Physical Activity on Prescription (FaR) in Sweden

In 1996, the first Report of the US Surgeon General on Physical Activity and Health provided an extensive knowledge overview about the positive effects of physical activity (PA) on several health outcomes and PA recommendations. This contributed to an enhanced interest for PA in Sweden. The Swedish Professional Associations for Physical Activity (YFA) were appointed to form a Scientific Expert Group in the project “Sweden on the Move” and YFA created the idea of Physical Activity on Prescription (FaR) and the production of a handbook (FYSS) for healthcare professionals. In Swedish primary care, licensed healthcare professionals, i.e. physicians, physiotherapists and nurses, can prescribe PA if they have sufficient knowledge about the patient’s current state of health, how PA can be used for promotion, prevention and treatment and are trained in patient-centred counselling and the FaR method. The prescription is followed individually or by visiting local FaR providers. These include sport associations, patient organisations, municipal facilities, commercial providers such as gyms, sports clubs and walking clubs or other organisations with FaR educated staff such as health promoters or personal trainers. In clinical practice, the FaR method increases the level of PA in primary care patients, at 6 and at 12 months. Self-reported adherence to the prescription was 65% at 6 months, similar to the known compliance for medications. In a randomised controlled trial, FaR significantly improved body composition and reduced metabolic risk factors. It is suggested that a successful implementation of PA in healthcare depends on a combination of a systems approach (socio-ecological model) and the strengthening of individual motivation and capability. General support from policymakers, healthcare leadership and professional associations is important. To lower barriers, tools for implementation and structures for delivery must be readily available. Examples include handbooks such as FYSS, the FaR system and the use of pedometers.