Group Physical Activity Program Research Articles

Barriers and Benefits of Online Group Exercise Programs for Older Adults.

Engaging in regular physical activity offers a myriad of benefits, including the improvement of mental health, social well-being, and cognitive function. Unfortunately, obstacles, such as transportation constraints, time limitations, and inadequate exercise facilities, hinder the regular participation of older adults in physical activity. Online group physical activity programs present a promising solution to enhance the involvement of older adults; however, several barriers impede their effective utilization. To explore these barriers and benefits, we conducted semi-structured interviews with participants and instructors of a community-based exercise program. Thematic analysis of interviews with 12 physical activity instructors and eight program participants unveiled key hindrances, including limited awareness and accessibility of online programs, challenges in assessing performance during exercise sessions, lack of social component, and technological difficulties. On the positive side, the benefits encompass convenience, wide accessibility, and enhanced social comfort. We also deliberate on future considerations to further bolster participation in these programs.

“We’re all in the same boat”: The role of group physical activity in community (re) development following a natural disaster

ABSTRACT After the 2018 Camp Fire decimated the town of Paradise, California, a group physical activity (PA) program was developed to support the community. The PARADISEU program (Physical Activity Reduces Anxiety and Depression Increases the Stress Response and Energizes You) was based on evidence that participating in PA has the potential to positively impact mental health. The current study explored the potential of PA programs to assist in individual and community growth and (re)development efforts following a natural disaster using a qualitative case-study method. Fourteen participants in the community PA program were interviewed. From their experiences, four themes emerged: benefits of physical exercise, a sense of place, social connection, and importance of leadership in the group PA classes for creating community. A composite vignette shares participants’ experiences surrounding these themes. This study provides valuable information for future community development in post-disaster recovery scenarios.

Examining the New-Member Effect to an Established Community-Based Physical Activity Program for Older Adults in England.

Community-based group physical activity programs promote exercise opportunities for older people. The aim of this study was to examine the short-term, new participant effect after joining Vitality, a community-based group physical activity program available in the East of England for older adults. Two independent groups of participants were assessed before and after an 8 week period: a group recruited from the 'Vitality' program (VP) (n 15, age: Age = 69.4 ± 6.4 y), and; a non-intervention control (CON) group (n 14, age: 64.5 ± 5.8 y). Assessment outcomes included basic physical health measures, a fitness test battery, and three psychological scales. The VP group recorded statistically significant improvements on the following outcomes: body mass (VP: -1.39 kg/CON: -0.2 kg), body mass index (VP: -1.5 kg/CON: -0.2 kg), 6 min walk (VP: +42.81 m/CON: -0.45 m), 30 s sit-to-stand (VP: -1.7 s/CON: -0.7 s), the chair sit-and-reach (VP: +3.12 cm/CON: +1.90 cm), and the 30 s arm curl test (VP: + 2 reps/CON: +0.9 reps). No significant differences were found with the other outcomes assessed. New members to the Vitality program achieved several physical and functional benefits without regression on any aspects of physical or psychological health.

Development and pilot testing of a clinic implementation program delivering physical activity electronic referrals to cancer survivors.

Provider physical activity referrals are recommended for cancer survivors, though barriers exist to clinical system integration. To develop and test ActivityChoice, an electronic referral (eReferral) clinic implementation program referring cancer survivors to physical activity programs of their choice. In Phase 1, we conducted semi-structured interviews with Cancer Center clinicians (n = 4) and cancer-focused physical activity program leaders (n = 3) assessing adaptations needed to implement an eReferral previously designed for another context. In Phase 2, we pilot-tested clinician-delivered referrals to survivors in two 12-week Plan, Do, Study, Act (PDSA) cycles. We examined feasibility using descriptive statistics (clinicians' adoption and engagement, patient referrals, and physical activity program enrollment) and acceptability through semi-structured interviews with enrolled clinicians (n = 4) and referred patients (n = 9). ActivityChoice included a secure referral webform, text message/email referral confirmations, clinician training/booster sessions, visual reminders, and referrals to in-person or virtual group physical activity programs. Results for each PDSA cycle respectively included: 41% (n = 7) and 53% (n = 8) of clinicians adopted ActivityChoice; 18 and 36 patients were referred; 39% (n = 7) and 33% (n = 12) of patients enrolled in programs, and 30% (n = 4) and 14% (n = 5) of patients deferred enrollment. Patients and clinicians appreciated the referrals and choices. A printed handout describing both programs was added to the clinic workflow for Cycle 2, which yielded more referrals, but lower program enrollment rates. Clinic-based eReferrals to choices of physical activity programs were feasible and acceptable by clinicians and patients. Added clinic workflow support may facilitate referrals.

The Effect of a Group Physical Activity Program on Behavior of Incarcerated Youth.

Behavioral health challenges are more prevalent in incarcerated youth than in the general youth population. Questions remain regarding whether physical activity programs can reduce behavioral health challenges in incarcerated youth. Data were available for 1,285 youths incarcerated between January 2017 and December 2018. The structured exercise program was implemented in January 2018. Primary outcomes were numbers of use of force (UoF) and of program modifications (PMs) indicative of delinquent behavior in pre- and post-exercise implementation periods. Rates per 1,000 person-days for UoF (10.0 in 2017 vs. 7.4 in 2018) and for PMs (36.7 vs. 22.9) were statistically different. For youths incarcerated both years, rates per 1,000 person-days for UoF (12.3 vs. 7.9), and for PMs (43.3 vs. 23.5) were statistically different. There was a reduction in behavior modifications in incarcerated youths after implementing the exercise program, but further studies are needed to confirm these results.

Social Support and Body Image in Group Physical Activity Programs for Older Women.

Physical declines with aging may negatively impact women's body image. Group physical activity can be a source of social support that may improve body image. We examined how social support experienced in group physical activity programs impacts older women's body image. Guided by interpretive description, we interviewed 14 women age 65 years and older who participated in group physical activity classes. Although women experienced both positive and negative body image, body image was generally positively impacted by physical activity. Four themes described social support processes that affected body image in the physical activity context: fitting in and being inspired through identifying with others; what is discussed and not discussed; providing comfort, understanding, and acceptance; and skilled and empathetic interactions with instructors. Understanding how social support in group physical activity can promote positive body image throughout aging can inform practical guidelines for facilitating and improving support in this context.

Social support among older adults in group physical activity programs

Group physical activity programs provide opportunities for older adults to receive social support, which is known to be positively associated with physical activity behavior in this population, but further research is needed to understand how this happens. The purpose of this study was to determine the social support needs and challenges experienced by older adults participating in group physical activity programs and identify social support functions and behaviors that enabled their engagement. Using interpretive description methodology, 16 field observations of classes, eight focus group discussions, and interviews with two participants who were unable to attend focus groups were conducted with adults aged 55 and older attending programs across four recreation facilities. Analysis of the data suggested that (a) there is a need for fostering social relationships in programs, which are imperative for receiving social support. Older adults in the programs supported other participants by (b) initiating their engagement in (more) physical activity, (c) helping them sustain their engagement in physical activity, (d) assisting them with recognizing successful engagement in physical activity, and (e) providing comfort and reassurance during difficult times. Social support behaviors that target older adults’ emotional and tangible needs may be most important for promoting and sustaining physical activity. Support provided by other older adults enhanced participants’ motivation and abilities to overcome obstacles, as well as enabled them to pursue opportunities for growth in their unique physical activity journeys. Lay summary: Social support can promote physical activity in older adults, but how forms of support are provided must be considered. This qualitative study examined the social support needs and experiences of older adults participating in group physical activity programs to determine social support functions and behaviors that enabled their engagement. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Group physical activity programs should aim to foster social relationships among older adult participants in order for them to receive social support that is sensitive and responsive to their needs. Instructors of group physical activity programs should encourage cultural awareness and acceptance among older adult participants for closer social relationships to be developed. Instructors of group physical activity programs should encourage social support behaviors among participants that target older adults’ emotional and tangible needs to sustain their engagement.

Experiences With Social Participation in Group Physical Activity Programs for Older Adults.

Little is known about how social participation can be facilitated among older adults in group physical activity and its psychosocial benefits that contribute to successful aging. This study aimed to understand older adults' experiences with social participation in group physical activity programs. Using interpretive description methodology, 16 observations, eight focus groups, and two interviews with participants unable to attend focus groups were conducted with adults 55 years and older attending programs across four recreation facilities. Group programs were found to influence social participation through (a)a meaningful context for connecting and (b)instructors' expectations of social interaction. Social participation in these programs addressed psychosocial needs by (c)increasing social contact and interaction, (d)fostering social relationships and belonging, and (e)promoting regular engagement. Training for instructors should include balancing the physical aspects of program delivery with the social, while also considering older adults' diverse needs and preferences for social interaction.

규칙적인 여가활동이 노인의 건강관련 삶의 질에 미치는 영향: 신체적 여가활동을 중심으로

This study examined the effects of regular physical leisure activities on the health-related quality of life (SF-36) of the elderly. For this purpose, pre-post data on health physical fitness factors, body composition factors, and health-related quality of life were compared and analyzed. The subjects of this study were 60 elderly persons who participated in the customized exercise class at the health center in Gyeonggi-do, and 23 elderly people who did not participate in the program. The regular group physical activity program was conducted three times a week for 15 weeks. The data analysis was conducted by analyzing the difference of pre-post test between the experimental group and the control group, and analyzing the difference between the experimental group and the control group. First, the results of the analysis showed that there was a significant decrease in the experimental group in both the body composition and physical fitness among the elderly, but there was no significant decrease in the control group. The experimental group showed significant differences in total score and sub-factors (PF), general health (GH), vitality (VT), mental health (MH), pain (BP), and health change (HC). On the other hand. And the control group showed a decrease in both the total score and sub-factors of health-related quality of life. The results of this study suggest that the elderly who do not have physical activity, the lower their musculoskeletal and cardiovascular functions, and it may have influenced negative on the quality of life related to health. Therefore, regular physical activity is expected to have a positive effect on the quality of life by improving the physical strength and body composition among the elderly. The results of this study suggest the development and activation of programs and service related to leisure activities for the elderly persons.

Physical Activity in the Workplace – Making the Healthy Choice the Easy Choice

Background: Engaging in physical activity in the workplace is important to address to combat the negative health outcomes associated with physical inactivity and prolonged sitting.Aim: This study aims to identify efforts that increase light neuromotor physical activity in university workplaces for sedentary employees.Methods: Sub-study 1 examined 15 intervention employees and 10 control employees. MANOVA was used to examine average number of days employees did three movements at work between groups over an eight-week period. Sub-study 2 examined 56 employees and measured three beliefs towards employee intention to do the movements at work. A linear regression examined the significance of the beliefs in predicting employee intention.Results: MANOVA results showed a significant effect between groups on the average number of days employees did three movements over an eight-week period of time, F (3, 21) = 3.16; p < .05. The adjusted R-squared predicting intention from the three beliefs was .343 (p < .001). Participants' belief in how 'easy' doing the movements would be significantly predicted intention scores (β= .467; p < .001) as did the 'popular' belief (β = .371; p < .01). Conclusion: Worksite group physical activity programs can increase the frequency employees get up and move at work. Employee beliefs of how easy or popular a behavior is can significantly predict intention to do neuromotor movements in workplaces.

Impact of Home Quarantine on Physical Activity Among Older Adults Living at Home During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Qualitative Interview Study.

BackgroundOlder adults and those with pre-existing medical conditions are at risk of death from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS CoV-2). In this period of quarantine, one of the reasons for going out is physical activity. This issue is important, as the impact of a sedentary lifestyle might be lower for children and young adults, but is far more severe for older adults. Although older adults need to stay at home because they have a higher risk of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), they need to avoid a sedentary lifestyle. Physical activity is important for older adults, especially to maintain their level of independence, mental health, and well-being. Maintaining mobility in old age is necessary, as it may predict loss of independence in older adults.ObjectiveOur first objective was to evaluate the impact of this quarantine period on physical activity programs and on the physical and mental health of older adults. Our second objective was to discuss alternatives to physical activity programs that could be suggested for this population to avoid a sedentary lifestyle.MethodsWe conducted a qualitative survey using semistructured interviews with professionals (managers in charge of physical activity programs for older adults and sports trainers who run these physical activity programs) from the French Federation of Physical Education and Voluntary Gymnastics (FFPEVG) and older adults participating in a physical activity program of the FFPEVG. We followed a common interview guide. For analysis, we carried out a thematic analysis of the interviews.ResultsThis study suggests that the COVID-19 epidemic has affected, before quarantine measures, the number of seniors attending group physical activity programs in the two study territories. In addition, despite the decline in their participation in group physical activities before the quarantine, older adults expressed the need to perform physical activity at home. There is a need to help older adults integrate simple and safe ways to stay physically active in a limited space. A national policy to support older adults for physical activity at home appears essential in this context.ConclusionsGiven the results of our study, it seems necessary to globally communicate how important it is for older adults to maintain physical activity at home. We are concerned about the level of independence and mental health state of older adults after the end of quarantine if there is no appropriate campaign to promote physical activity among them at home.

"Looking Forward": a qualitative evaluation of a physical activity program for middle-aged and older adults with serious mental illness.

Older adults with serious mental illness (SMI) often have poor physical health in addition to serious mental health issues. Sustained engagement in a group physical activity program may provide necessary physical and mental health benefits. The purpose of this report is to describe participants' feedback about a video game-based group physical activity program using the Kinect for Xbox 360 game system (Microsoft, Redmond, WA). In particular, we wanted to understand what worked about the program, what was not ideal, and how it impacted their lives. Semi-structured interviews were collected and analyzed with grounded theory methodology. Mental health facility. Sixteen older adults with SMI. Participants played an active video game for 50-minute sessions, three times a week for 10 weeks. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 16 participants upon completion of the program. Participants expressed enthusiasm for the physical activity program, indicating it was an activity that they looked forward to doing. The results of the study provide insight into how the program may be implemented into practice at mental health facilities. Three implementation to practice categories were identified: (1) programmatic considerations, such as when to hold the groups and where; (2) the critical importance of staff involvement; and (3) harnessing patients' interest in the program. Our results suggest that engagement in an intense video game-based group physical activity program has a positive impact on participants' overall health. The group atmosphere, staff involvement, availability of the program at a mental health facility, and health benefits were critical.

Development and implementation of a community-based pole walking program for older adults

ABSTRACTBackground: To address the problem of physical inactivity among older adults and the desire of community-based groups to have access to innovative physical activity programs, a pole walking program was developed specifically for older adults living at home who visit community organizations. Methods: The Walking with Poles Program (WWPP) is based on a six-stage approach involving: (1) definition, (2) conceptualization, (3) creation and validation, (4) pilot test, (5) generalization, and (6) consolidation. Reach, dose delivered, and dose received of program implementation were documented. Results: To date, the five stages of this co-construction project have been successfully operationalized through the WWPP. The program was implemented by seven community organizations. It reached 76 older adults whose characteristics are typical of this type of community-based group physical activity program. For instructors, implementing the promotional activities was the most difficult part of the WWPP. Overall, the program was well received by the participants, instructors, and the organization managers. Conclusion: This approach ensured the rigor, relevance, and feasibility of the WWPP.

The effect of a physical activity program on chronic psychiatric patients' positive and negative symptoms and depression levels: A randomized controlled trial

Physical activity is widely recognized as an important behavioral means of risk prevention and illness management, or alternatively, recovery and the realization of well-being. Mental health nurses have a holistic approach to the health care of those with mental illness and physical activity is an important component of holistic care. This research was undertaken in order to analyze the effect a physical activity program has on positive and negative symptoms of patients with schizophrenia and their depression levels. This is a randomly controlled experimental study designed with a pre-test and post-test. The Scale for the Assessment of Positive Symptoms, the Scale for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms and the Calgary Depression Scale for Schizophrenia were used in this research. The study was carried out with 60 patients, 30 in the experimental and 30 in the control group. The Mann-Whitney U and Wilcoxon tests were used, and the Cronbach's alpha coefficient was calculated. It was found that there was a significant difference between the mean scores on the Scale for the Assessment of Positive Symptoms and the Scale for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms (p<0.05.) According to this study's findings, the physical activity program for patients with schizophrenic had a statistically significant positive effect on their positive and negative symptoms and depression levels. As a results; 1) this randomized-controlled trial investigated the effect of physical activity program on positive and negative symptoms depression levels among of patients with schizophrenia, 2) results of this study on 60 patients with schizophrenia showed that an 12-week group physical activity program was significantly effective in patients with schizophrenia’ positive and negative symptoms depression, 3) physical activity should be routinely included in plans of psychiatric nursing care.

Bénéfices de l’Activité Physique Adaptée couplée à des Interventions Psychologiques ciblées pour les personnes souffrant de Sclérose en Plaques (SEP)

As part of a collaboration between the Centre Sport et Santé of The University of Lausanne and the sports psychologist Mattia Piffaretti, a physical activity program has been adapted for 29 patients suffering from multiple sclerosis. The 29 patients were divided into three research groups. The first group EX (n=5, age=50.6±9.8) followed a bi-weekly physical activity intervention program for a total of 12 weeks in addition to their usual medical treatment. The second group MOT (n=8, age=46.8±8.7) followed a program combining a bi-weekly physical activity intervention (the same as group EX) and bi-monthly exercise psychology sessions for 12 weeks, in addition to their usual medical treatment. The third group Control (n=16, age=47.0±5.4) followed their usual medical treatment. We received 13 patients of the study in the Centre Sport et Santé of The University of Lausanne to give them a specific and adapted physical activity program. This program was divided into shifts “work” and “collective work”. The main objectives of this training were the work of balance (postural control), the work of coordination, building muscle and finally, stretching and joints mobilization. Group work gave the participants a different vision of team sports and allowed them to strengthen relational ties between the group. The global objective of the study, conducted by Mr. Piffaretti, was to determine how much of group physical activity programs, combined or not with targeted psychological interventions inspired by sports psychology, can improve the well-being of patients with Multiple Sclerosis and who have the ability to walk independently.

Beyond Strength: Participant Perspectives on the Benefits of an Older Adult Exercise Program.

This study examines the expected and experienced benefits among participants in Enhance®Fitness (EF), an evidence-based group physical activity program for older adults. We also describe the implications for program dissemination (reach, implementation, and maintenance) within the RE-AIM (reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance) framework. Twenty semistructured interviews were conducted with EF participants enrolled from 2005 to 2012. Interviews were digitally recorded, professionally transcribed, and analyzed using a deductive approach. Participants were motivated to join EF for expected physical benefits and the social environment of a group-based class. Actualized benefits of participation included physical, social, functional, and improved self-image/sense of well-being. Participants valued the practical application of class exercises to daily activities that support independent living, such as lifting objects and completing household chores. Organizations looking to implement EF or improve existing EF classes can improve program reach, implementation, and maintenance by incorporating participants' expressed motivations and valued benefits in program marketing and by improving organizational support to meet participant needs. EF class instructors can tailor their classes to engage participants based on their motivations. Understanding participants' motivations and valued benefits can improve EF dissemination by meeting participant needs with tailored class offerings and organizational needs informed by participant insights that aid program sustainability.

Development and implementation of an obesity management service in the ACT: A preliminary report

Referral and attendance records were examined, in addition to indicators measured in the initial assessment. A summary of data collected at baseline will be presented including the following parameters: demographic breakdown (gender, age), anthropometry (mean Body Mass Index and mean waist circumference), and emotional well-being (PHQ-2 Depression Screening Tool and Dartmouth COOP Chart). Records relating to referral source, comorbid physical and mental health conditions, bariatric surgery status and attendance rates will also be presented, in addition tomeasures assessed in group education and physical activity programs. A summary of initial treatment planning in the OMS will also be presented, including total case manager assignment, referral to internal and external providers, and occasions of service in the 30 days following initial assessment. An overview of health service use records in the 12 months preceding assessment in the OMS assessing occasions of service for emergency presentations, number of admissions and total bed days, outpatient appointments, total medical and allied health specialists will also be provided. Assessment of the first 50 patients accessing the ACT Health Obesity Management Service provides a detailed summary of patient characteristics to date. Additional case series should be examined over time to continue to understand this population and optimise assessment, treatment and evaluation methods.

Breast cancer survivors' decisions to join a dragon boating team.

Physical activity is associated with psychosocial and physical health benefits for breast cancer survivors. Little is known, however, about survivors' decision-making processes when considering joining group physical activity programs designed for survivors. Guided by interpretive description methodology (Thorne, 2008), N = 15 breast cancer survivors who were considering or had made the decision to join a dragon boating team were interviewed about their decisions to participate. Four patterns of decision making were identified: searching for a way to care for physical and social needs, taking advantage of opportunities created by breast cancer, dove in with little contemplation, and hesitant to connect with other survivors. Results have implications for understanding decisions to participate in physical activity groups in this population and overcoming challenges to participation.

Effects of a group physical activity program on physical fitness and quality of life in individuals with schizophrenia

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of a 16-week group physical activity (PA) program on physical fitness and quality of life in outpatients with schizophrenia. MethodsNineteen outpatients with schizophrenia were divided into experimental (EG) (n = 8; mean age 39 ± 7 years) and control (CG) (n = 11; mean age 40 ± 6 years) groups. The EG underwent twice a week sessions of a group PA program for a period of 16-week. The participants completed a battery of tests at baseline and after 16-week, which included the assessment of body composition (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry), functional exercise capacity (6MWT), physical activity levels (accelerometers), quality of life (WHOQOL-Brief), and anthropometric measures. During the program different strategies were implemented to ensure the participants' adherence. ResultsThe attendance to the program was 79.7%. In the EG a significant decrease was observed in hip circumference (p = 0.02); a significant increase occurred in moderate to vigorous physical activity (p = 0.05) and in the environment domain (WHOQOL-Brief) (p = 0.02). The improvement in environment domain scores was also associated with a decrease in sedentary behavior (r = −0.82, p = 0.01) in the EG. ConclusionsThe strategies used during the program promoted a high rate of attendance. PA may have a positive impact on the participants' ability to perform activities of daily living. This study showed that a group PA program can be successfully implemented for outpatients with schizophrenia and can influence their quality of life and PA levels.

Validating physical activity measures in middle-aged adults completing a group or home-based physical activity program

Introduction: The main purpose of this study was to determine whether self-reported physical activity duration and intensity via exercise diaries matched accelerometer data and the Active Australia Survey.