Exercise Preferences Research Articles

PERSPECTIVES OF KIDNEY TRANSPLANT RECIPIENTS REGARDING THE BARRIERS AND ENABLERS TO EXERCISE

BACKGROUND Kidney transplant is a second chance at life for people with kidney failure. However, the post-transplant journey is difficult with high rates of complications such as new onset diabetes, steroid induced weight gain and cardiovascular disease. While exercise has the potential to improve quality of life and reduce the susceptibility these complications, kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) report lower levels of exercise and physical activity compared to the general population. Our qualitative study aimed to explore the barriers and enablers to exercise in KTRs. METHODS People with a stable kidney transplant treated in the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District were invited to participate in the study. Interviews were conducted with n=11 KTRs with an age of 25-74 years, transplant duration of 1-19 years, and comorbidities included hypertension (n=9), cancer (n=4), diabetes (n=3) and dyslipidemia (n=4). Interviews were transcribed then inductively coded and deductively categorised according to the Theoretical Domains Framework and the Capability, Opportunity, and Motivation Model of Behaviour. RESULTS KTRs expressed a desire to exercise though barriers specific to transplant were identified. Barriers included a lack of knowledge and specific guidance, physical limitations (e.g. fatigue, illness related to medications or comorbidities, injury or pain), and fear of harming the kidney (e.g. herniation, pain/pulling at surgical site, dehydration, immunocompromised state). Enablers to exercise included already living an active lifestyle, perceived mental benefits, exercise preferences and social support. CONCLUSIONS A key finding of this research was a preference from KTRs specific exercise information and guidance after kidney transplant. The findings of this study can be used to inform the development of exercise resources and interventions for KTRs and their health care professionals within the local community and at a greater level.

A QUALITATIVE EXPLORATION OF THE EFFECT OF A METASTATIC BREAST CANCER DIAGNOSIS ON PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND QUALITY OF LIFE

BACKGROUND Physical activity is beneficial for people living with metastatic breast cancer, a cancer that has spread to other body parts such as liver, lungs and lymph nodes, but less is known about patient views on supporting them in an active lifestyle. Through a qualitative scope this study aimed to investigate the effect of a metastatic breast cancer diagnosis on physical activity and quality of life aiming to capture exercise motivators, barriers, and preferences to inform and introduce feasible and effective physical activity in treatment plans. METHODS This study involved semi-structured interviews with eight female participants from the local Metastatic Breast Cancer Support Group in Portsmouth. RESULTS Reflexive thematic analysis was conducted on the data, and five higher order themes were developed: (i) Life is affected by diagnosis and treatment, (ii) Limitations to being more physically active, (iii) Physical activity’s impact on quality of life, (iv) Factors supporting/enhancing physical activity and quality of life, and (v) Actions to support physical activity and quality of life. Generally, participants reported that living with metastatic breast cancer had negatively altered their quality of life, including their ability to be physically active. Perceptions of the introduction or continuation of physical activity were welcomed. Despite the benefits and factors found to support physical activity engagement several barriers were identified, such as treatment focus and exercise misconceptions. CONCLUSION Metastatic breast cancer impacts quality of life and the ability to be physically active, being active is generally perceived to be beneficial, and social and environmental support is important to being physically active.

Patient perspective on exercise practices, preferences, and barriers in pediatric nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: A multicenter survey.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is prevalent among children, and lifestyle modification is the primary treatment approach. However, the optimal exercise duration, frequency, and intensity for managing NAFLD remain undefined. This study aimed to gain insights from the patient perspective by examining exercise behaviors, preferences, and barriers in children with NAFLD. A multicenter survey was conducted among children 8-18 years with NAFLD in pediatric gastroenterology clinics. Participants completed a questionnaire on exercise practices, preferences, and barriers, while parents completed a questionnaire on their willingness and ability to support their child's exercise. Data were analyzed using χ 2 test with Yates' correction and two-sample t test. The study included 408 children with NAFLD, with a mean age of 13.8 years. Approximately 52.5% of participants had physical education classes at school, while 59.5% engaged in extracurricular exercise, averaging 3.7 days per week. However, 11.5% reported no physical activity. A significant majority (81.1%) expressed interest in increasing their exercise levels, primarily driven by health-related factors. Time-related constraints were the most cited barriers to exercise (53.7%). Approximately 80% of parents demonstrated willingness and ability to support their child's exercise regimen. This study provides insights into exercise behaviors, preferences, and barriers among children with NAFLD. Half of the children lacked exercise opportunities at school but expressed interest in increasing their physical activity. Time limitation was the major obstacle cited. Parents are motivated to support increased physical activity. Exercise intervention programs for NAFLD should consider the perspective of the children and their families.

The exercise intensity–music-tempo preference relationship: A decennial revisit

Tempo is a key determinant of the motivational effects of music during exercise and has been the focus of numerous empirical studies (e.g., Karageorghis & Jones, 2014). The present study sought to address the limitations of previous related work and revisit the relationship between exercise intensity and music-tempo preference using unfamiliar, non-lyrical music (to isolate the tempo manipulation). A within-within experimental design was employed to test hypotheses pertaining to the non-linear relationship and associated psychological outcomes (e.g., core affect and state attention). Twenty-four participants (Mage = 20.6 years, SD = 0.92 years) exercised at five intensities (10% of peak V̇O2 below ventilatory threshold [VT]; 5% of peak V̇O2 below VT, at VT, midway between VT and the respiratory compensation point [RCP], and at RCP) during which they were administered music tracks at four tempi (90 bpm, 110 bpm, 130 bpm and 150 bpm) and a no-music control. A music liking item, measures of core affect (valence and arousal), attentional focus and perceived exertion were recorded during the exercise bouts. Results indicated that unlike previous findings with familiar, lyrical music, there was no discernible relationship between exercise intensity and preference for music tempo. The most positive psychological outcomes were associated with fast-tempo music. In accord with previous findings, slow-tempo music attracted low liking scores and the least desirable psychological outcomes at every exercise intensity. The present findings have implications for the use of unfamiliar, non-lyrical music during exercise. Specifically, that such music should be ∼10 bpm faster than familiar, lyrical music.

Implementation on Large-Scale Mobile Fitness App Usage Analysis for Smart Health

Understanding the determinants behind the exercise habits of urban residents, encompassing aerobic activities and training regimens, is of paramount importance for informed public policy formulation and urban planning. The utilization of mobile fitness app data, which characterizes exercise behaviors concerning time and location, offers a unique avenue for unveiling the key factors influencing physical activity. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of mobile fitness app data, collecting information from over 14,000 cellular towers and studying the exercise patterns of 4,000 users. Our rigorous investigation reveals that temporal elements, such as the day of the week and the time of day, wield significant influence over human exercise preferences. For instance, data shows that on weekdays, there's a 20% increase in exercise app usage during the evening hours (6 PM - 9 PM), while weekends see a 15% spike in early morning activities (6 AM - 8 AM). Geographical location also emerges as a prominent influencer. Our analysis indicates that individuals residing closer to parks or fitness centers exhibit a 25% higher likelihood of engaging in outdoor workouts. Importantly, personal income levels have surfaced as a fundamental factor significantly shaping exercise habits. Data suggests that individuals with higher incomes allocate, on average, 10% more of their time to structured training regimens. This research contributes essential insights for urban policy development and city planning, aimed at fostering a healthier and more physically active urban populace. Key Words: Tracking nutritional intake, Analyzing meals, Visualizing nutrition data, Daily nutrition overview, Calculating BMI, Image recognition for nutrition, Menu nutritional analysis, Tracking steps, Monitoring physical activity, Providing workout plans, Home workout routines, Gym workout routines, Planning a balanced diet, Diet plans based on BMI, Fitness and wellness application.

Establishing the feasibility of exercise breaks during university lectures.

It is important that principles of laboratory-based studies with implications for academic performance be implemented in naturalistic learning environments to gauge their feasibility. Here, an adaptation of a laboratory-based study of exercise breaks during a single video lecture was implemented during large, in-person lectures at Ohio State University for the duration of a semester. The rationale for this approach was based on findings that research participants who took exercise breaks during a video lecture were more likely to be on task towards the end of the lecture and performed significantly better on a multiple choice exam. The current project had three goals: (1) Establish the feasibility of integrating student-led exercise breaks during in-person lectures in a large university setting (2) Provide practical guidelines for implementing exercise breaks during in-person lectures (3) Provide preliminary evidence of positive effects of exercise breaks in a higher-education setting. One to two student-led exercise breaks (5 min each) were implemented during each 80 min, in-person lecture for the duration of a semester in four upper level Psychology courses with student enrollment ranging from 20 to 93 students (total enrollment = 223 students). Students reported that the exercise breaks were a strength of the courses and a positive experience, including self-reported improvement in attention to lecture content. Self-reported quantitative data indicated that exercise breaks improved attention, increased course enjoyment, and enhanced peer engagement. Compared to other classes, the students preferred exercise breaks during lectures. The current approach establishes the feasibility of integrating exercise breaks in a large, in-person university lecture environment for the duration of a semester with preliminary data indicating a positive impact on attention, engagement, and enjoyment. Practical guidelines for implementing exercise breaks during in-person lectures are provided.

Why don't women engage in muscle strength exercise? An integrative review.

Women are 'at-risk' population for failing to meet muscle strengthening guidelines. Health benefits specific to this exercise mode include maintenance of muscle mass, which is associated with reduced risk of chronic disease and falls. Of significance is the progressive decline in muscle strength exercise participation in women aged 35-54 in Australia. This period is critical for maintaining muscle strength as it establishes foundations for older women's engagement. This integrative review examined available evidence regarding factors influencing muscle strength exercise participation, specifically in women aged 35-54. Seven databases were searched. Study inclusion criteria were: (1) peer reviewed, (2) English language, (3) sample populations of healthy female adults or general adult sample population differentiating females from males, (4) mean age between 35 and 54 years, (5) focused on muscle strength exercise and measured as the primary outcome factors of participation in muscle strength exercise. Five of 1895 studies met inclusion criteria. Five key factors were associated with participation in muscle strength exercise of women aged 35-54 years: perceived time constraints; knowledge and education; modality and intensity; social support and behavioural strategies. Focused education on strength exercise and guidelines, plus initiatives and strategies that suit the needs of this cohort, are necessary to achieve health and wellbeing benefits. Responsive approaches by health professionals to these women's circumstances can potentially address current low participation levels. SO WHAT?: Creating conditions where health professionals respect a woman's exercise preferences can positively impact these women's musculoskeletal health into older age.

A Review of High-Intensity Interval Training in Heart Transplant Recipients: Current Knowledge and Future Perspectives.

This review reports how exercise-based rehabilitation strategies have developed over the past decades, and it specifically focuses on the effectiveness, safety, and implementation of high-intensity interval training (HIIT). It provides an overview of the historical progression, main research findings, and considerations surrounding HIIT as the preferred exercise modality for recipients of heart transplant (HTx). The review includes a timeline of studies spanning from 1976-2023. The 2017 Cochrane systematic review on exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation in recipients of HTx serves as the main knowledge base (≥2015). Additionally, literature searches in PubMed/Medline and ClinicalTrials.gov have been performed, and all reviews and studies reporting the effects of moderate- to high-intensity exercise in recipients of HTx, published in 2015 or later have been screened. High-intensity interval training has gained prominence as an effective exercise intervention for recipients of HTx, demonstrated by an accumulation of performed studies in the past decade, although implementation in clinical practice remains limited. Early restrictions on HIIT in HTx recipients lacked evidence-based support, and recent research challenges these previous restrictions. High-intensity interval training results in greater improvements and benefits compared with moderate-intensity continuous training in the majority of studies. While HIIT is now regarded as generally suitable on a group level, individual assessment is still advised. The impact of HIIT involves reinnervation and central and peripheral adaptations to exercise, with variations in recipent responses, especially between de novo and maintenance recipients, and also between younger and older recipients. Long-term effects and mechanisms behind the HIIT effect warrant further investigation, as well as a focus on optimized HIIT protocols and exercise benefits.

Development and feasibility of a conceptual model for planning individualised physical exercise training (IPET) for older adults: a cross-sectional study

ObjectiveOlder adults constitute a heterogeneous group, and the focus of the individual physical exercise is often subject to the reasoning and experience of health professionals or exercise physiologists who prescribe...

Survey of the clinical practices of physiotherapists for the management of post-stroke fatigue.

Post-stroke fatigue (PSF) is a common condition among stroke survivors. However, evidence supporting the effective clinical management of PSF is insufficient. Our objectives were to examine the clinical practices of physiotherapists for the management of PSF and evaluate their clinical knowledge and confidence in managing PSF. We conducted a cross-sectional study using an online survey of the sociodemographic profiles of participating physiotherapists, their current clinical practices, clinical knowledge, confidence in their clinical management of PSF, and the types and intensity of the exercises used in the management of PSF. A total of 160 physiotherapists completed the survey: 86 (53.8%) were women, 148 (92.5%) were Saudi nationals, 126 (78.7%) were employed by the Ministry of Health, and 34 (21.3%) worked in the private sector. The majority (60%) of physiotherapists did not routinely assess their patients for the presence of fatigue. Likewise, 93 (58.1%) did not provide any PSF-related educational material to their patients; however, 67 (41.9%) did provide these materials. The preferred exercises of the physiotherapists for their patients were bed and chair exercises (59.5%), followed by functional training (51.4%), and resistance training (23.1%). Our results suggest that while physiotherapists practicing in Saudi Arabia have a sound theoretical understanding of PSF management, their knowledge does not necessarily translate into practice. Interventions used to treat PSF include bed and chair exercises, functional training, and resistance training.

A systematic review of discrete choice experiments in stroke rehabilitation

ABSTRACT Objectives Existing research qualitatively explores consumer preferences for stroke rehabilitation interventions. However, it remains unclear which intervention characteristics are most important to consumers, and how these preferences may influence uptake and participation. Discrete choice experiments (DCE) provide a unique way to quantitatively measure preferences for health and health care. This study aims to explore how DCEs have been used in stroke rehabilitation and to identify reported consumer preferences for rehabilitation interventions. Material and Methods A systematic review of published stroke rehabilitation DCEs was completed (PROSPERO registration: CRD42021282578). Six databases (including CINAHL, MEDLINE, EconLIT) were searched from January 2000-March 2023. Data extracted included topic area, sample size, aim, attributes, design process, and preference outcomes. Descriptive and thematic analyses were conducted, and two methodological checklists applied to review quality. Results Of 2,446 studies screened, five were eligible. Studies focused on exercise preference (n = 3), the structure and delivery of community services (n = 1), and self-management programs (n = 1). All had small sample sizes (range 50–146) and were of moderate quality (average score of 77%). Results indicated people have strong preferences for one-to-one therapy (over group-based), light-moderate intensity of exercise, and delivery by qualified therapists (over volunteers). Conclusions Few DCEs have been conducted in stroke rehabilitation, suggesting consumer preferences could be more rigorously explored. Included studies were narrow in the scope of attributes included, limiting their application to practice and policy. Further research is needed to assess the impact of differing service delivery models on uptake and participation.

Understanding Urban Residents’ Walking Exercise Preferences: An Empirical Study Using Street View Images and Trajectory Data

Walking exercise is a prevalent physical activity in urban areas, with streetscapes playing a significant role in shaping preferences. Understanding this influence is essential for creating urban environments conducive to walking exercise and improving residents’ quality of life. In this study, we utilize scenic beauty estimation and deep learning methods, leveraging street view images and walking exercise trajectories to analyze this influence from a human-centric perspective. We begin by generating sampling points along streets covered by trajectories and acquiring street view images. Subsequently, we apply a deep learning model to segment the images, yielding six visual indicators. Additionally, we use scenic beauty estimation to derive the seventh visual indicator. Finally, we match these indicators with trajectory data to implement preference analysis. The main findings are: (1) preferences for walking and running exercises differ on multiple indicators; (2) there are gender distinctions, with males preferring openness and females prioritizing enclosed spaces; (3) age plays a role, with those aged 30–40 preferring openness and those aged 40–50 preferring enclosed spaces; (4) preferences for different indicators vary over time and across different locations. These insights can inform policymakers in tailoring urban planning and design to specific population segments and promoting sustainable residential landscapes.

Exercise preference in stroke survivors: a concept analysis.

Exercise preference in stroke survivors is related to their adherence to long-term rehabilitation regimen and functional recovery. Although explored recently, the term exercise preference still lacks a clear definition. The aim of this study is to conceptualize exercise preference in stroke survivors. The Walker and Avant method was applied as a framework for the conceptual analysis of exercise preference. Data from 34 publications were collected using seven databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, CINAHL, CNKI, Wanfang Data, and CBM) and applied in the analysis. The search period was from the inception of the database to April 30, 2023. Exercise preference in stroke survivors was defined according to four attributes: priority of choice, behavioral tendency, affective priming, and patience in adherence. The common antecedents of the concept of exercise preference in stroke survivors were classified into patient-related, therapy-related, and environmental-related categories and the consequences were classified into three categories: patient-related, rehabilitation provider-related, and rehabilitation service system-related. Exercise preference in stroke survivors refers to the patient's choice, tendency, affective response, and attitude toward engagement in the recommended rehabilitation regimen. It is beneficial for understanding the essential attributes of exercise preference in stroke survivors by clarifying the concept. In addition, it will facilitate the development of instruments for assessing exercise preference in stroke survivors and the construction of theory-based intervention programs that can improve adherence to exercise rehabilitation.

A Random Reference Model

We provide two nested models of random reference-dependent choice in which the reference point is endogenously determined by random processes. Random choice behavior is due to random reference points, even though, from the decision-maker’s viewpoint, choices are deterministic. Through a revealed preference exercise, we establish when and how one can identify the reference-dependent preferences and the random reference rule from observed choice data. We also present behavioral postulates that characterize the empirical content of our models. Lastly, we investigate an application of our model to Bertrand competition with differentiated products. (JEL D11, D91)

Examining Individual Versus Group Exercise Preference Among Maltese Gym-Goers

This paper presents a study of exercise behaviours among Maltese gym users where it seeks to understand what factors govern choices among gym users to exercise either alone or in a group. It is argued that being able to predict the propensity to exercise alone or in a group presents an opportunity for fitness providers to organise their efforts more efficiently in the broader context of contributing to improving public health and, therefore, possibly providing a more relevant gym product. Exercise and fitness literature highlights various factors likely to influence participants’ proclivities to exercise solo or in a group, including motivation, competitiveness, sporting background, age, and gender. To explore the possible influences of such factors in the Maltese context, a cross-sectional survey was carried out via an online questionnaire, which was analysed statistically using logistic regression. This was conducted by first incorporating the above factors with a propensity to exercise alone or in a group as the dependent binary outcome. Finally, a most parsimonious model was applied following a stepwise iterated process of factor elimination. The results show that gender and age were the most significant predictors of training modality, with being male increasing the likelihood of engaging in solo gym exercise behaviour by over five times. Increased age was also a significant predictor of exercising alone. We present a discussion of the findings in terms of exercise and fitness service provision, as well as broader issues related to the interaction between gym culture and gender norms.

Comprehensiveness, Accuracy, and Readability of Exercise Recommendations Provided by an AI-Based Chatbot: Mixed Methods Study.

Regular physical activity is critical for health and disease prevention. Yet, health care providers and patients face barriers to implement evidence-based lifestyle recommendations. The potential to augment care with the increased availability of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies is limitless; however, the suitability of AI-generated exercise recommendations has yet to be explored. The purpose of this study was to assess the comprehensiveness, accuracy, and readability of individualized exercise recommendations generated by a novel AI chatbot. A coding scheme was developed to score AI-generated exercise recommendations across ten categories informed by gold-standard exercise recommendations, including (1) health condition-specific benefits of exercise, (2) exercise preparticipation health screening, (3) frequency, (4) intensity, (5) time, (6) type, (7) volume, (8) progression, (9) special considerations, and (10) references to the primary literature. The AI chatbot was prompted to provide individualized exercise recommendations for 26 clinical populations using an open-source application programming interface. Two independent reviewers coded AI-generated content for each category and calculated comprehensiveness (%) and factual accuracy (%) on a scale of 0%-100%. Readability was assessed using the Flesch-Kincaid formula. Qualitative analysis identified and categorized themes from AI-generated output. AI-generated exercise recommendations were 41.2% (107/260) comprehensive and 90.7% (146/161) accurate, with the majority (8/15, 53%) of inaccuracy related to the need for exercise preparticipation medical clearance. Average readability level of AI-generated exercise recommendations was at the college level (mean 13.7, SD 1.7), with an average Flesch reading ease score of 31.1 (SD 7.7). Several recurring themes and observations of AI-generated output included concern for liability and safety, preference for aerobic exercise, and potential bias and direct discrimination against certain age-based populations and individuals with disabilities. There were notable gaps in the comprehensiveness, accuracy, and readability of AI-generated exercise recommendations. Exercise and health care professionals should be aware of these limitations when using and endorsing AI-based technologies as a tool to support lifestyle change involving exercise.

Enhancing digital health services: A machine learning approach to personalized exercise goal setting.

The utilization of digital health has increased recently, and these services provide extensive guidance to encourage users to exercise frequently by setting daily exercise goals to promote a healthy lifestyle. These comprehensive guides evolved from the consideration of various personalized behavioral factors. Nevertheless, existing approaches frequently neglect the users' dynamic behavior and the changing in their health conditions. This study aims to fill this gap by developing a machine learning algorithm that dynamically updates auto-suggestion exercise goals using retrospective data and realistic behavior trajectory. We conducted a methodological study by designing a deep reinforcement learning algorithm to evaluate exercise performance, considering fitness-fatigue effects. The deep reinforcement learning algorithm combines deep learning techniques to analyze time series data and infer user's exercise behavior. In addition, we use the asynchronous advantage actor-critic algorithm for reinforcement learning to determine the optimal exercise intensity through exploration and exploitation. The personalized exercise data and biometric data used in this study were collected from publicly available datasets, encompassing walking, sports logs, and running. In our study, we conducted the statistical analyses/inferential tests to compare the effectiveness of machine learning approach in exercise goal setting across different exercise goal-setting strategies. The 95% confidence intervals demonstrated the robustness of these findings, emphasizing the superior outcomes of the machine learning approach. Our study demonstrates the adaptability of machine learning algorithm to users' exercise preferences and behaviors in exercise goal setting, emphasizing the substantial influence of goal design on service effectiveness.

Exercise Preferences and Barriers Among Patients With Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction or Myocardial Infarction.

Although cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is highly recommended in patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD), participation in CR is low mainly due to access barriers. Home-based CR (HBCR) has been recommended to overcome access barriers. Exercise is a core component of CR and should be developed and implemented based on individual characteristics. We aimed to assess physical activity behaviors, exercise preferences, and exercise barriers to understand physical activity characteristics of CVD patients. Participants were patients between the ages 19 to 75 years with a history of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) or myocardial infarction (MI). They completed a cross-sectional survey at a tertiary hospital's outpatient clinic from April to June 2021. Survey data included physical activity levels, patterns, preference, and barriers of exercise. Participants (n=189; 143 males, 46 females, 62.1±12.0 years) were diagnosed as either HFrEF (n=160, 84.7%) or a history of MI (n=97, 51.3%). Only 26.5% of patients engaged in moderate to vigorous exercise for more than 150 minutes per week. Participants preferred exercising alone or with families. Walking (65.6%) and resistance exercises (35.4%) were favored, with outdoor (37%) and home-based (30.2%) settings preferred over fitness centers (10.6%) and hospitals (0.5%). Barriers to exercise included fatigue (34.4%), poor health perception (31.7%), and low fitness levels (30.7%). The results of this study can be used to develop tailored HBCR programs that consider individual preferences and address specific barriers, facilitating adequate physical activity engagement.

Adopting Telerehabilitation in Albania: Evaluating Acceptance, Preferences, and Impediments Among Physiotherapists and the Public

Background: COVID introduced a new approach to healthcare services. The pandemic showed that the need to rely on online services is very significant. Tele-rehabilitation, as the delivery of rehabilitation services via information and communication technologies, is a well-known concept for developed countries but not for Albania. Objective: To investigate acceptability, preferences, and needs in tele-rehabilitation by Albanian physical therapists and the general population. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among physiotherapists and general population related to tele-rehabilitation in physiotherapy to verify how recognized and applied this field is today in Tirana, Albania. Results: The study involved 57 professionals, mostly aged 25-34, with 43 participants working in the private sector. The focus was on musculoskeletal and orthopedic issues, with 18 participants in each category. Opinions on tele-rehabilitation were divided, with 42% of physiotherapists in favor and another 42% remaining neutral. Most physiotherapists had no prior tele-rehabilitation experience, but about one-third found technology integration beneficial. Health information and education were widely supported, with 86% of participants in favor. Self-management strategies were endorsed by 77%. Among 173 non physiotherapists, the vast majority were females (94%) and mostly aged 25-34 (nearly half). About two-thirds had never used physiotherapy services. Attitudes towards tele-rehabilitation costs were uncertain for almost half of the participants. However, 58% recognized the potential of digital technology, with video conferencing seen as helpful by 52% and apps by 18%. Most participants preferred exercise prescriptions, self-management, and health information. Conclusion: The conclusion points towards the need for further education and infrastructural enhancements to fully realize tele-rehabilitation’s capabilities in improving healthcare accessibility in Albania. Keywords: Digital physical therapy, Perception, Rehabilitation, Telehealth.

Students’ learning preferences for forms and activities – suggestions for academic teachers

Aims: The aim of the study was to identify the most preferred classroom forms and activities among students. Methodology: The study was conducted using a survey questionnaire that was completed by 167 students from five different classes. The questionnaire included questions about the students' preferences for lecture, exercise, project, laboratory, and seminar form. Results: The results of the study showed that students preferred a blended learning approach, combining both direct contact and remote learning, and that the level of IT skills had a significant impact on their preferences. Limitations: The limitations of the study include a small sample size and a limited scope, as it only focused on the form and activities in classroom instruction and did not address the challenges and limitations of the learning process. Conclusions: Overall, this study contributes to the understanding of student preferences in classroom and can be useful for designing effective teaching strategies in higher education.