Increase In Total Physical Activity Research Articles

Effectiveness of behavioural interventions with motivational interviewing on physical activity outcomes in adults: systematic review and meta-analysis

ObjectiveTo evaluate the effectiveness of behavioural interventions that include motivational interviewing on physical activity outcomes in adults.DesignSystematic review and meta-analysis.Study selectionA search of seven databases for randomised controlled trials published...

Зв’язок способу життя і ментального здоров’я дітей міста Києва на другому році війни

The aim of the study was to research changes in the daily routine and learning of schoolchildren during the war and their association with mental health. Materials and methods: A study of daily routines and mental health of schoolchildren in Kyiv was conducted using an online questionnaire. Informed consent was obtained from parents. For analyzing 1417 questionnaires were selected (743 boys, 674 girls). The study of responses to the questionnaires made it possible to determine the weekly duration of physical activity (PA) of light (LPA) and moderate and high-intensity physical activity (MVPA), the duration of sedentary activity (SB) and sleep, as well as to determine the gradation of anxiety-depressive indicators and signs of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The formats of the learning process were evaluated (full-time, distance, mixed). The data obtained were also compared with the data at the beginning of the full-scale invasion. Statistical methods of data obtained were used. Results: The study showed that during the war, Kyiv schoolchildren’s daily routine and level of physical activity changed. In the spring of 2023, (47.0±1.4)% of Kyiv schoolchildren had full-time learning, (19.3±1.1)% - in distance learning, (32.9±1.3_% - in mixed learning, in contrast to 2022, when children learned mainly in a distance format. In 2023, there was a 6.4% decrease in sleep duration compared to 2022. Additionally, there was a 19.2% increase in total physical activity due to LPA, while conversely, there was a 17.7% decrease in MVPA. In 2022, 23.1% of school-age children had the optimal level of MVPA (60 min/day), while in 2023, this percentage decreased to 11.3% (p<0.001). The proportion of children with anxiety, depression indicators and PTSD in 2023 was 10.5%, 26.4%, and 13.9%, respectively. In the presence of signs of depression and/or anxiety, schoolchildren demonstrated a decrease in all types of physical activity, a reduction in sleep duration, and, conversely, an increase of SB. Conclusions: Further research is needed to study the impact of lifestyle on the mental health of schoolchildren during the war, given the decreased duration of MVPA in Kyiv schoolchildren against the background of increased level of depression indicators. This will enable the identification of at-risk groups and the implementation of comprehensive measures to assist children in adapting during humanitarian emergencies.

Effect of Intrapersonal and Interpersonal Behavior Change Strategies on Physical Activity Among Older Adults

Despite guidelines that recommend physical activity (PA), little is known about which types of behavior change strategies (BCSs) effectively promote sustained increases in PA in older adults who are insufficiently active. To determine whether intrapersonal BCSs (eg, goal setting) or interpersonal BCSs (eg, peer-to-peer sharing or learning) combined with the Otago Exercise Program (17 strength and balance exercises and a walking program that are learned and individually tailored, with instruction to perform 3 times per week at home or location of choice) and a wearable PA monitor help older adults sustain increases in their PA. This 2 × 2 factorial randomized clinical trial (Community-Based Intervention Effects on Older Adults' Physical Activity) of community-dwelling older adults 70 years or older with PA levels below minimum national PA guidelines was conducted in urban community centers. Dates of enrollment were from November 17, 2017, to June 15, 2021, with final follow-up assessments completed on September 2, 2022. Participants were randomized to intrapersonal (eg, goal setting) BCSs, interpersonal (eg, problem-solving with peer-to-peer sharing and learning) BCSs, intrapersonal and interpersonal BCSs, or an attention control group. All interventions included a PA monitor and 8 weekly small-group meetings with discussion, practice, and instructions to implement the exercise program and relevant BCSs independently between meetings and after the intervention. The primary outcome was daily minutes of objectively measured total PA (light, moderate, or vigorous intensities) averaged over 7 to 10 days, measured at baseline and after the intervention at 1 week, 6 months, and 12 months. Among 309 participants (mean [SD] age, 77.4 [5.0] years; 240 women [77.7%]), 305 (98.7%) completed the intervention, and 302 (97.7%) had complete data. Participants receiving PA interventions with interpersonal BCS components exhibited greater increases in total PA than did those who did not at 1 week (204 vs 177 PA minutes per day; adjusted difference, 27.1 [95% CI, 17.2-37.0]; P < .001), 6 months (195 vs 175 PA minutes per day; adjusted difference, 20.8 [95% CI, 10.0-31.6]; P < .001), and 12 months (195 vs 168 PA minutes per day; adjusted difference, 27.5 [95% CI, 16.2-38.8]; P < .001) after the intervention. Compared with participants who did not receive interventions with intrapersonal BCS components, participants who received intrapersonal BCSs exhibited no significant changes in total PA at 1 week (192 vs 190 PA minutes per day; adjusted difference, 1.8 [95% CI, -8.6 to 12.2]; P = .73), 6 months (183 vs 187 PA minutes per day; adjusted difference, -3.9 [95% CI, -15.0 to 7.1]; P = .49), or 12 months (177 vs 186 PA minutes per day; adjusted difference, -8.8 [95% CI, -20.5 to 2.9]; P = .14) after the intervention. Interactions between intrapersonal and interpersonal BCSs were not significant. In this randomized clinical trial, older adults with low levels of PA who received interpersonal BCSs, the exercise program, and a PA monitor exhibited significant increases in their PA for up to 12 months after the intervention. Intrapersonal BCSs elicited no significant PA changes and did not interact with interpersonal BCSs. Our findings suggest that because effects of a PA intervention on sustained increases in older adults' PA were augmented with interpersonal but not intrapersonal BCSs, approaches to disseminating and implementing the intervention should be considered. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03326141.

A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Efficacy of Physical Activity Interventions among University Students

Inadequate physical activity (PA) among university students, a growing concern, hinders their holistic health development and the formation of healthy habits. Current evidence regarding the impact of interventions to promote PA in this group remains inconclusive. Through a systematic review and meta-analysis, this study aims to evaluate the efficacy of PA interventions in promoting PA among university students. A search of six electronic databases up to 30 June 2023 was conducted to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing PA interventions in university students. Thirty-one RCTs were included for systematic review and meta-analysis. The eligible studies’ quality was assessed via the Cochrane Collaboration tool for evaluating the risk of bias. The results indicated a significant increase in total PA (TPA), moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA), and step counts at post-intervention compared to control groups, with effect sizes approaching large for MVPA and an increase of 19,245 steps per week. TPA also showed significant improvements during follow-up periods from three weeks to 12 months. Subgroup analyses revealed significant intervention effects across all subgroups, with the subgroups of post-COVID and sample sizes ≤100 showing larger effect sizes within their respective group. This review identified that interventions could enhance TPA, MVPA, and step counts among university students, with sustainable effects on TPA, while further research is needed for other outcomes. The university environment is conducive to PA interventions, and future interventions integrating e-health with in-person modes, coupled with matched theories and behavior change techniques, show promise. This review protocol has been registered on the platform of the International Prospective Register for Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO, CRD42023486749).

Impact of the diagnosis of gestational diabetes on maternal physical activity after pregnancy.

The diagnosis of gestational diabetes (GDM) identifies women who are at future risk of developing type 2 diabetes. However, it is unclear if diagnosing GDM thus motivates women to increase physical activity after pregnancy or if this medicalization has the opposite effect of decreasing activity, possibly reflecting assumption of a sick role. We thus sought to evaluate the impact of diagnosing GDM on changes in maternal physical activity after pregnancy. In this prospective cohort study, physical activity patterns were assessed by the Baecke questionnaire for the year before pregnancy and the first year postpartum in 405 white women comprising the following three gestational glucose tolerance groups: (a) those who did not have GDM (non-GDM; n = 247), (b) women with undiagnosed GDM (n = 46) and (c) those diagnosed with GDM (n = 112). In the year before pregnancy, mean adjusted total physical activity progressively decreased from non-GDM to undiagnosed GDM to diagnosed GDM (p = .067). Conversely, at 1 year postpartum, total physical activity was highest in those who had been diagnosed with GDM (p = .02). Compared with non-GDM, diagnosed GDM predicted an increase in total physical activity from pre-pregnancy to 1 year postpartum (t = 2.3, p = .02) whereas undiagnosed GDM predicted a concurrent decrease in leisure-time activity (t = -2.74, p = .006). Accordingly, the mean adjusted increase in body mass index from pre-pregnancy to 1 year postpartum was lowest in those with diagnosed GDM (0.26 ± 0.25 kg/m2 ), highest in undiagnosed GDM (1.23 ± 0.38 kg/m2 ) and intermediate in non-GDM (0.89 ± 0.22 kg/m2 ) (overall p = .04). Diagnosis of GDM leads to increased physical activity after pregnancy that may partially attenuate postpartum weight retention.

Hula as a physical activity and social support intervention for sustained activity in female breast and gynecologic cancer survivors

BackgroundPhysical activity improves health and psychosocial functioning for people who have been diagnosed with cancer. Native Hawaiians face disparities for some cancers, including breast cancer. Delivering culturally grounded interventions has the potential to improve enjoyment and adherence to the intervention. We sought to test the adherence and impact of a 6 month randomized wait-list controlled trial of hula.MethodsIn this randomized wait-list controlled design people who had been diagnosed with breast or gynecologic cancers were invited to participate with other cancer survivors in a group based setting. Participants were randomized to begin hula immediately or after six months. Attendance was collected and heart-rate measured three times per session. In addition, demographic data, self-report psychosocial data, and biological data (findings will be reported elsewhere) were collected at three time points: baseline, 6 months, and 12 months. The study included six months of hula, twice per week, 60 min each session. In addition, participants committed to practice 60 min per week at home.ResultsParticipants in the study (n = 42) attended, on average, 72% of the sessions. Significant increase in moderate physical activity (d = 0.50, p = 0.03) was observed in the intervention versus control group. For the measures of intra-individual changes pre-and post-intervention, an increase in total physical activity were seen in the intervention group (d = 0.69, p = 0.003), daily caloric intake decreased (d = −0.62, p = 0.007), and a reduction in waist circumference (d = −0.89, p = 0.0002) that was sustained six months after completion of the intervention. Psychosocially, cognitive functioning significantly declined from baseline to 12 months (d = −0.50, p = 0.03), with role functioning improving (d = 0.55, p = 0.02), social constraints increasing (d = 0.49, p = 0.03), and financial difficulties improving (d = −0.55, p = 0.02).ConclusionSustainable physical activity is crucial to improve both the survival and quality of life of cancer survivors. Culturally grounded interventions, such as hula have the potential to increase the maintenance of physical activity. In addition, they create a support group where the benefits of people who have all experienced cancer can gather and garner those benefits of social support, too. This study was registered as a clinical trial through the National Cancer Institute (NCT02351479).Clinical trial registrationClinicaltrails.gov, NCT02351479.

Physical activity, sedentary behaviour and mental health in Norwegian youths; a longitudinal study

Abstract Background Research suggests that the mental health of adolescents is less than optimal. Physical activity (PA) has been positively associated with mental health, while the relationships with sedentary behaviour (SED) has shown negative associations. Previous studies have methodological limitations related to study design and instruments used to measure both PA/SED and mental health. Purpose Explore whether changes in objectively assessed PA [Total PA and moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA)] and SED are associated with mental health problems (MHP) and mental well-being (MWB) among adolescents. Methods Longitudinal data was collected from 11 lower secondary schools in three waves between 2016-2018. Baseline participation rate was 60% (599 participants, 54.4% girls, 13.3 years). PA and SED were measured by ActiGraph GT3X+/BT. MHP were measured by the Strengths and difficulties questionnaire, while MWB was measured by the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale. Results No associations between PA (Total PA and MVPA) and MHP were found neither for girls nor boys. However, for boys the results showed a positive relationship between change in SED and MWB (p = 0.02) implying that a daily increase in SED of 60 minutes would be equivalent to a 3.2 points higher score in MWB. For girls, there was a modest relationship between change in Total PA and MWB (p = 0.04) Conclusions Our data suggest that there may be a gendered pattern in the relationship between PA, SED and mental health among adolescents. Changes in Total PA and MVPA was largely unrelated to MHP in a healthy sample of adolescents. Among boys, an increase in SED was associated with improved MWB. For girls, the relationship with MWB was only apparent through an increase in Total PA. Key messages • The relationships between PA, SED and mental health among adolescents are complex. • SED may provide an arena for supporting MWB depending on the activities undertaken and requires further research.

Digital interventions to moderate physical inactivity and/or nutrition in young people: a Cancer Prevention Europe overview of systematic reviews.

Strategies to increase physical activity (PA) and improve nutrition would contribute to substantial health benefits in the population, including reducing the risk of several types of cancers. The increasing accessibility of digital technologies mean that these tools could potentially facilitate the improvement of health behaviours among young people. We conducted a review of systematic reviews to assess the available evidence on digital interventions aimed at increasing physical activity and good nutrition in sub-populations of young people (school-aged children, college/university students, young adults only (over 18 years) and both adolescent and young adults (<25 years)). Searches for systematic reviews were conducted across relevant databases including KSR Evidence (www.ksrevidence.com), Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (CDSR) and Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects (DARE; CRD). Records were independently screened by title and abstract by two reviewers and those deemed eligible were obtained for full text screening. Risk of bias (RoB) was assessed with the Risk of Bias Assessment Tool for Systematic Reviews (ROBIS) tool. We employed a narrative analysis and developed evidence gap maps. Twenty-four reviews were included with at least one for each sub-population and employing a range of digital interventions. The quality of evidence was limited with only one of the 24 of reviews overall judged as low RoB. Definitions of "digital intervention" greatly varied across systematic reviews with some reported interventions fitting into more than one category (i.e., an internet intervention could also be a mobile phone or computer intervention), however definitions as reported in the relevant reviews were used. No reviews reported cancer incidence or related outcomes. Available evidence was limited both by sub-population and type of intervention, but evidence was most pronounced in school-aged children. In school-aged children eHealth interventions, defined as school-based programmes delivered by the internet, computers, tablets, mobile technology, or tele-health methods, improved outcomes. Accelerometer-measured (Standardised Mean Difference [SMD] 0.33, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 0.05 to 0.61) and self-reported (SMD: 0.14, 95% CI: 0.05 to 0.23) PA increased, as did fruit and vegetable intake (SMD: 0.11, 95% CI: 0.03 to 0.19) (review rated as low RoB, minimal to considerable heterogeneity across results). No difference was reported for consumption of fat post-intervention (SMD: -0.06, 95% CI: -0.15 to 0.03) or sugar sweetened beverages(SSB) and snack consumption combined post-intervention (SMD: -0.02, 95% CI:-0.10 to 0.06),or at the follow up (studies reported 2 weeks to 36 months follow-up) after the intervention (SMD:-0.06, 95% CI: -0.15 to 0.03) (review rated low ROB, minimal to substantial heterogeneity across results). Smartphone based interventions utilising Short Messaging Service (SMS), app or combined approaches also improved PA measured using objective and subjective methods (SMD: 0.44, 95% CI: 0.11 to 0.77) when compared to controls, with increases in total PA [weighted mean difference (WMD) 32.35 min per day, 95% CI: 10.36 to 54.33] and in daily steps (WMD: 1,185, 95% CI: 303 to 2,068) (review rated as high RoB, moderate to substantial heterogeneity across results). For all results, interpretation has limitations in terms of RoB and presence of unexplained heterogeneity. This review of reviews has identified limited evidence that suggests some potential for digital interventions to increase PA and, to lesser extent, improve nutrition in school-aged children. However, effects can be small and based on less robust evidence. The body of evidence is characterised by a considerable level of heterogeneity, unclear/overlapping populations and intervention definitions, and a low methodological quality of systematic reviews. The heterogeneity across studies is further complicated when the age (older vs. more recent), interactivity (feedback/survey vs. no/less feedback/surveys), and accessibility (type of device) of the digital intervention is considered. This underscores the difficulty in synthesising evidence in a field with rapidly evolving technology and the resulting challenges in recommending the use of digital technology in public health. There is an urgent need for further research using contemporary technology and appropriate methods.

The Long-Term Influence of Puppy Acquisition on Physical Activity: Results of a 3-Year, Longitudinal, Pilot Study.

Dog ownership has been associated with increased levels of physical activity (PA), including increases in total PA and walking time in some but not in all studies. These earlier studies did not consider puppy acquisition, in particular, and were limited to a maximum of 10 months duration. The purpose of the current pilot study was, therefore, to analyze long-term changes in participants’ PA behavior after puppy acquisition. Participants who acquired a puppy from one of nine preselected breeds differing in size and energy level were included. PA was assessed at baseline and 6, 12, 24 and 36 months after puppy acquisition using an online questionnaire. Participants, who were initially included, did not differ in their PA at baseline (n = 38). In the group that completed the trial (n = 11) total PA, leisure time walking, total dog-related PA, and total dog walking increased within the first two years and decreased while remaining above baseline values during the last year, coinciding with the COVID-19 pandemic. Non-dog-related PA did not change over time. We conclude that the acquisition of a puppy increases PA and thus, could have a long-lasting positive effect on physical health.

Device-measured Physical Activity And Cardiovascular Disease Risk In Adolescent Childhood Cancer Survivors

Childhood cancer survivors (CCS) are at increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases (CVD) due to aggressive cancer treatment. The relationship between physical activity (PA) and CVD risk in CCS has not been thoroughly investigated. PURPOSE: To compare CVD risk in adolescent CCS with an international age- and sex-stratified reference; and examine the association between device-measured PA and CVD risk in adolescent CCS. METHODS: The Physical Activity in Childhood Cancer Survivors (PACCS) Study is a cross-sectional, multicentre study. Data were gathered in Norway and Switzerland on PA and CVD risk factors (VO2-peak in ml/kg/min, body mass index (BMI), systolic blood pressure (SBP, mm/Hg), total-cholesterol/HDL-cholesterol (Total/HDL) from CCS aged 9-18 yrs. Values of CVD risk factors were transformed into external z scores, and an individual CVD risk score was calculated as: (ZVO2-peak + ZBMI + ZSBP + ZTotal/HDL) / 4. CVD risk factors and the CVD risk score were compared with Welch’s t-test. Multivariable mixed models were used to analyse the association between PA and CVD risk. RESULTS: We included 157 CCS aged on average 13.4 yrs at inclusion and 8.2 yrs from diagnosis. Male CCS had lower VO2-peak compared to references (45.0 ± 10.7 vs. 49.4 ± 1.1 ml/kg/min, p < 0.001), as well as a borderline higher CVD risk score (0.16 ± 0.72 vs. 0.0 ± 1.0, p = 0.053). In contrast, female CCS’ CVD risk was comparable to references. Ten minutes increase in low-intensity PA (LPA), moderate-intensity PA (MPA), and vigorous-intensity PA (VPA) were associated with higher VO2-peak ((βLPA = 0.5, 95% CI: 0.2, 0.8; βMPA = 1.2, 95% CI: 0.6, 1.7; and βVPA = 5.0, 95% CI: 2.2, 7.9) and a lower CVD risk score (βLPA = -0.0, 95% CI: -0.1, -0.0; βMPA = -0.1, 95% CI: -0.1, -0.0; and βVPA = -0.4, 95% CI: -0.6, -0.2). Ten minutes increase of MPA was also associated with lower SBP (β = -0.9, 95% CI: -1.5, -0.2), and VPA with lower Total/HDL (β = -0.3, 95% CI: -0.6, -0.1). A 100 count per minute increase in total PA was associated with higher VO2-peak (β = 1.3 (95% CI: 0.5, 2.0), lower SBP (β = -0.9, 95% CI: -1.7, -0.1), lower Total/HDL (β = -0.1, 95% CI: -0.2, -0.0), and a lower CVD risk score (β = -0.1, 95% CI: -0.2, -0.0). CONCLUSIONS: Increased PA in adolescent CCS is associated with lower CVD risk score. Supported by the Norwegian Research Council and the Norwegian Cancer Association

Quantifying the Effect of Physical Activity on Endometrial Cancer Risk.

Effective, low-cost primary prevention strategies are urgently needed to tackle the rapid global increase in endometrial cancer. We sought to quantify the effect of physical activity on endometrial cancer risk, noting a linear inverse relationship influenced by body mass index. The most beneficial type and amount of activity remain unclear.

The longitudinal association between objectively measured physical activity and mental health among Norwegian adolescents

BackgroundMental health among young people in many countries, including Norway, seems to be deteriorating. Physical activity (PA) has been positively associated with mental health. However, methodological issues related to study design and measurement of PA and mental health outcomes currently limits our understanding of the relationship. The purpose of the present study is to explore the prospective relationship between objectively measured PA and mental health outcomes. More specifically, volume (total PA), intensity (moderate-to-vigorous PA [MVPA]) and sedentary behaviour (SED) were explored in relation to mental health problems (MHP) and mental wellbeing (MWB).MethodsData from 599 adolescents (54.4% female, mean age at baseline ±SD 13.3 ± 0.3 years) were collected annually during their 3 years (T1, T2 and T3) at lower secondary school. PA was measured using accelerometry. MWB was measured using the ‘Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale’ and MHP by the ‘Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire’. Multiple linear regression was performed to explore relationships between changes in PA/SED (between T1-T3) and MWB/MHP (at T3). The term ‘movement categories’ was used to refer to components on the movement continuum and includes volume (total PA), intensity (MVPA) and SED.ResultsAmong boys, any increase in SED was positively associated with MWB (β = 0.05, 95% CI: 0.01 to 0.10), whereas a small positive association between an increase in total PA (volume) and MWB was found among girls (β = 1.13, 95% CI: 0.05 to 2.21). There were no associations between changes in any movement categories [total PA (volume), MVPA, SED] and score on MHP at T3, neither for girls nor boys.ConclusionThis study provided no clear evidence of any association between change in volume or intensity of PA and MHP among an overall healthy adolescent study sample. There was, however, evidence of a relationship between increased SED and MWB among boys and increased volume of PA and MWB among girls. The relationship between movement categories and mental health may depend on the measurement used to assess both PA/SED and variables of mental health. Future research would be strengthened by researchers clarifying what construct of mental health is being used and measured.

Objectively Measured Physical Activity Is Associated With Body Composition and Metabolic Profiles of Pacific and New Zealand European Women With Different Metabolic Disease Risks.

Objective: To assess associations between physical activity (PA), body composition, and biomarkers of metabolic health in Pacific and New Zealand European (NZE) women who are known to have different metabolic disease risks.Methods: Pacific (n = 142) or NZE (n = 162) women aged 18–45 years with a self-reported body mass index (BMI) of either 18.5–25.0 kg⋅m–2 or ≥30.0 kg⋅m–2 were recruited and subsequently stratified as either low (<35%) or high (≥35%) BF%, with approximately half of each group in either category. Seven-day accelerometery was used to assess PA levels. Fasting blood was analysed for biomarkers of metabolic health, and whole body dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) was used to estimate body composition.Results: Mean moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA; min⋅day–1) levels differed between BF% (p < 0.05) and ethnic (p < 0.05) groups: Pacific high- 19.1 (SD 15.2) and low-BF% 26.3 (SD 15.6) and NZE high- 30.5 (SD 19.1) and low-BF% 39.1 (SD 18.4). On average Pacific women in the low-BF% group engaged in significantly less total PA when compared to NZE women in the low-BF% group (133 cpm); no ethnic difference in mean total PA (cpm) between high-BF% groups were observed: Pacific high- 607 (SD 185) and low-BF% 598 (SD 168) and NZE high- 674 (SD 210) and low-BF% 731 (SD 179). Multiple linear regression analysis controlling for age and deprivation showed a significant inverse association between increasing total PA and fasting plasma insulin among Pacific women; every 100 cpm increase in total PA was associated with a 6% lower fasting plasma insulin; no significant association was observed in NZE women. For both Pacific and NZE women, there was an 8% reduction in fasting plasma insulin for every 10-min increase in MVPA (p ≤ 0.05).Conclusion: Increases in total PA and MVPA are associated with lower fasting plasma insulin, thus indicating a reduction in metabolic disease risk. Importantly, compared to NZE, the impact of increased total PA on fasting insulin may be greater in Pacific women. Considering Pacific women are a high metabolic disease risk population, these pre-clinical responses to PA may be important in this population; indicating promotion of PA in Pacific women should remain a priority.

Changes to Physical Activity during a Global Pandemic: A Mixed Methods Analysis among a Diverse Population-Based Sample of Emerging Adults in the U.S.

Emerging adults’ lives have changed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Physical activity (PA) behaviors need to be examined to inform interventions and improve health. Responses to the C-EAT (COVID-19 Eating and Activity over Time) survey (N = 720; age = 24.7 ± 2.0 yrs) were analyzed. This mixed-methods study quantitatively examined changes in self-reported PA (hours/week of mild PA, moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA), and total PA) from 2018 to 2020. Qualitative responses on how COVID-19 impacted PA were analyzed using a grounded theory approach. Hours of PA were lower on average for all intensity levels during COVID-19 than in 2018 (p’s < 0.0001). Over half of the sample reported a decrease in MVPA (53.8%) and total PA (55.6%); 42.6% reported a decrease in mild PA. High SES were more likely to report an increase in total PA (p = 0.001) compared to those of lower SES. Most (83.6%) participants perceived that COVID-19 had influenced their PA. The most common explanations were decreased gym access, effects on outdoor PA, and increased dependence on at-home PA. Results suggest that emerging adults would benefit from behavioral interventions and health promotion efforts in response to the pandemic, with a focus on activities that can be easily performed in the home or in safe neighborhood spaces.

Providing Time in the Schedule Is Insufficient for Increasing Physical Activity in Childcare

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to describe differences in children’s sedentary behavior and physical activity (PA) when their early care and education center met the recommended PA practices. Up to 4 d of Environment and Policy Assessment and Observation was collected on 80 centers and 150 classrooms along with corresponding accelerometer (ActiGraph GT3X+) data on 472 children. Linear mixed models were used to examine children’s PA outcomes based on compliance with the recommended PA practices (≥60 min·d−1 of outdoor play, ≥120 min·d−1 of indoor/outdoor play, and &lt;60 min·d−1 of sedentary time). Meeting outdoor play recommendation was associated with a significant difference in centers’ time use: +56.7 min·d−1 of outdoor play and −38.5 min·d−1 of indoor play, resulting in an approximately 9 min·d−1 increase in children’s total PA while at childcare. Meeting indoor/outdoor play recommendation was associated with differences in centers’ time use: +66.9 min·d−1 of indoor/outdoor play, −29.7 min·d−1 of screen/sitting, −11.4 min·d−1 for circle time, and −19.2 min·d−1 of nonclassified activities, resulting in an approximately 14 min·d−1 increase in children’s total PA while at childcare. Meeting recommendation for limiting sedentary time was associated with −55.0 min·d−1 of screen/sitting, +24.4 min·d−1 of indoor play, +15.1 min·d−1 of outdoor play, and +8.4 min·d−1 for circle time, resulting in an approximately 7.0 min·d−1 increase in children’s light activity only while at childcare. Classroom compliance with the recommended practices at childcare had minimal association with children’s total daily or at home PA levels. These results suggest that providing time for play alone leads to minimal increases in total PA. These findings suggest the need for more quality play opportunities (e.g., provider-led PA) rather than allocating time alone to improve daily PA.

Partnering and parenting transitions in Australian men and women: associations with changes in weight, domain-specific physical activity and sedentary behaviours

BackgroundPartnering and parenting are important life-stage transitions often accompanied by changes in social networks, roles and responsibilities. There have been no longitudinal studies examining associations of partnering and parenting with changes in domain-specific physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviours, and our understanding of whether these transitions are associated with weight change is limited.MethodsTwo thousand one hundred and twenty-four Australian adults from a national cohort (mean age 31.7 (2.7) years, 47.5% male) completed questionnaires at baseline (2004–06) and follow-up (2009–11), reporting marital and parental status. Weight (kg) was measured at baseline and self-reported at follow-up. PA and sedentary behaviours (sitting and television (TV) viewing) were self-reported in a subset (n = 1221). Linear regression estimated the longitudinal associations of parenting and partnering transitions with PA, sedentary behaviours and weight at follow-up, adjusted for baseline value of the respective outcome variable, age, education, follow-up duration and other life-stage transition.ResultsDuring the 5-year follow-up, 17.3% men and 12.9% women partnered, and 27.3% men and 19.1% women had their first child. Compared to staying not partnered, partnering was associated with an increase in total PA (177.5mins/week, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 18.0 to 337.0) among men and a greater weight gain (2.2 kg, 95% CI 0.6 to 3.7) among women. Compared to remaining child-free, having a first child was associated with greater reductions in total PA (− 123.9mins/week, 95% CI − 248.8 to 1.1) and TV viewing time (− 27.0mins/day, 95% CI − 50.6 to − 3.3) among men. Women who had their first child had greater weight gain (1.4 kg, 95% CI 0.1 to 2.7) but spent less time sitting (− 103.8mins/day, 95% CI − 135.5 to − 72.1) than those remaining child-free. For women, having additional children was associated with less sitting time (− 39.4mins/week, 95% CI − 66.0 to − 12.8) than having the same number of children.ConclusionsPartnering was associated with an increase in men’s total PA and women’s weight. Transitions into parenthood with a first child or additional children were associated with potentially health-impairing changes in weight and PA, but health-promoting changes in sedentary behaviours. Future PA promotion strategies should pay attention to men who had their first child to mitigate declining total PA.

Prospective association of physical activity and inflammatory biomarkers in older adults from the PREDIMED-Plus study with overweight or obesity and metabolic syndrome.

There is limited prospective evidence on the association between physical activity (PA) and inflammation in older adults. Our aim was to assess the associations between changes in PA and changes in the inflammatory profile in older individuals who are overweight or obese. This prospective study included 489 men and women, aged 55-75 years, from the PREDIMED-Plus trial. Levels of interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 8 (IL-8), interleukin 18 (IL-18), monocyte chemo-attractant protein-1 (MCP-1), C-peptide, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), leptin, and regulated on activation, normal T-cell expressed and secreted chemokine (RANTES) were obtained from fasting blood samples and a composite inflammatory score based on these biomarkers was calculated. Physical activity was measured by a validated questionnaire. All measures were taken at baseline and one-year follow-up. Multiple linear regression models showed an association between an increase in total PA and a decrease in the inflammatory score (p=0.012), which was particularly driven by a decrease in C-peptide (p=0.037). Similarly, the inflammatory score decreased with increasing moderate PA (p=0.001), and moderate-to-vigorous PA (p=0.006). Increases in total PA, moderate and moderate-to-vigorous PA were associated with a decrease in the inflammatory profile of obese or overweight older individuals. This finding is relevant for PA recommendations and public health strategies. Clinical trial identifier: International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial 89898870.

The Effect of Upgrades to Childcare Outdoor Spaces on Preschoolers' Physical Activity: Findings from a Natural Experiment.

Physical inactivity is a significant risk factor for childhood obesity. Preventing obesity in the early years reduces the risk of developing chronic health conditions later. Early childhood education and care (ECEC) services are important settings to establish good preschooler physical activity behaviors. This natural experiment investigated the influence of ECEC outdoor physical environment upgrade on preschoolers’ physical activity (aged 2–5 years). Centers implemented upgrades without researcher input. Physical activity was measured by 7-day accelerometry for intervention (n = 159; 6 centers) and control (n = 138; 5 centers) groups. ECEC outdoor space was assessed using a modified Environment and Policy Assessment and Observation (EPAO) Instrument. Key outcomes were measured at baseline and 6–12 months follow-up. Fixed sandboxes, balls, portable slides, portable floor play equipment (e.g., tumbling mats), and natural grassed areas were positively associated with activity levels; fixed tunnels and twirling equipment were negatively associated with activity levels (all p < 0.05). Post-upgrade portable play equipment (balls, twirling equipment, slides, floor play equipment) increased intervention preschoolers’ moderate-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) levels compared to control (p < 0.05). Intervention preschoolers were more active than control at follow-up (58.09 vs. 42.13 min/day increase in total physical activity; 30.46 vs. 19.16 min/day increase in MVPA (all p < 0.001)). Since few preschoolers meet daily activity recommendations while at ECEC, the findings may help ECEC providers to optimize outdoor physical environments and encourage more active play among preschoolers.

Partnering and parenting transitions in Australian men and women: associations with changes in weight, domain-specific physical activity and sedentary behaviours

Partnering and parenting are important life-stage transitions often accompanied by changes in social networks, roles and responsibilities. There have been no longitudinal studies examining associations of partnering and parenting with changes in domain-specific physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviours, and our understanding of whether these transitions are associated with weight change is limited. Two thousand one hundred and twenty-four Australian adults from a national cohort (mean age 31.7 (2.7) years, 47.5% male) completed questionnaires at baseline (2004–06) and follow-up (2009–11), reporting marital and parental status. Weight (kg) was measured at baseline and self-reported at follow-up. PA and sedentary behaviours (sitting and television (TV) viewing) were self-reported in a subset (n = 1221). Linear regression estimated the longitudinal associations of parenting and partnering transitions with PA, sedentary behaviours and weight at follow-up, adjusted for baseline value of the respective outcome variable, age, education, follow-up duration and other life-stage transition. During the 5-year follow-up, 17.3% men and 12.9% women partnered, and 27.3% men and 19.1% women had their first child. Compared to staying not partnered, partnering was associated with an increase in total PA (177.5mins/week, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 18.0 to 337.0) among men and a greater weight gain (2.2 kg, 95% CI 0.6 to 3.7) among women. Compared to remaining child-free, having a first child was associated with greater reductions in total PA (− 123.9mins/week, 95% CI − 248.8 to 1.1) and TV viewing time (− 27.0mins/day, 95% CI − 50.6 to − 3.3) among men. Women who had their first child had greater weight gain (1.4 kg, 95% CI 0.1 to 2.7) but spent less time sitting (− 103.8mins/day, 95% CI − 135.5 to − 72.1) than those remaining child-free. For women, having additional children was associated with less sitting time (− 39.4mins/week, 95% CI − 66.0 to − 12.8) than having the same number of children. Partnering was associated with an increase in men’s total PA and women’s weight. Transitions into parenthood with a first child or additional children were associated with potentially health-impairing changes in weight and PA, but health-promoting changes in sedentary behaviours. Future PA promotion strategies should pay attention to men who had their first child to mitigate declining total PA.

Impact of Online Weight Management With Peer Coaching on Physical Activity Levels of Adults With Serious Mental Illness.

Many adults with serious mental illness are sedentary and experience significant medical illness burden. This study examined the effectiveness of online weight management with peer coaching (WebMOVE) for increasing general physical activity among adults with serious mental illness. Using quantitative and qualitative data from a randomized controlled trial (N=276), this study compared WebMOVE, in-person weight management for adults with serious mental illness (MOVE SMI), and usual care. Participants completed assessments of general physical activity (baseline, three months, and six months) and a qualitative assessment (six months). Mixed-effects models examined group × time interactions on general physical activity. There were significant differences between MOVE SMI and usual care for total physical activity at three (t=3.06, p=.002) and six (t=3.12, p=.002) months, walking at six months (t=1.99, p=.048), and moderate (t=2.12, p=.035) and vigorous (t=2.34, p=.020) physical activity at six months. There was a significant difference between WebMOVE and usual care for total physical activity at six months (t=2.02, p=.044) and a trend for a group difference in walking at six months (t=1.78, p=.076). These findings reflected a decline in physical activity among participants in usual care and an increase in physical activity among participants in MOVE SMI or WebMOVE. In-person weight management counseling increased total physical activity and led to initiation of moderate and vigorous physical activity among adults with serious mental illness. Computerized weight management counseling with peer support led to more gradual increases in total physical activity.