Exercise Participation Research Articles

Predictions & perceptions: A social-ecological analysis of human-carnivore conflict in Botswana

Human-carnivore conflict in agrarian landscapes poses a significant threat to both large carnivore populations and human livelihoods. Conservation strategies aimed at mitigating conflict often rely primarily on ecological, landscape-scale factors. However, assessing the influence of microhabitat, as well as local variation in human perceptions, can offer valuable insights into the spatial patterns of human-carnivore conflict. The objectives of this study were to identify landscape predictors of livestock depredation risk, characterize microhabitat vegetation patterns at kill sites, and assess the spatial alignment between ecologically-predicted and human-perceived depredation risk. Through use of predation risk modeling, microhabitat pattern analysis, and participatory mapping exercises, we provide insight into the spatial patterns of livestock depredation risk from a multi-carnivore guild in an agrarian landscape located in the Makgadikgadi region of Botswana. We identified 170 depredation events and conducted 63 participatory mapping exercises across community lands situated between two wildlife protected areas. Results indicated anthropogenic landscape variables as the primary drivers of general depredation risk. Notably, distinct spatial patterns emerged between African lion (Panthera leo) and African wild dog (Lycaon pictus) depredation, underscoring the need for species-specific conservation strategies. Microhabitat analysis indicated a preference for lower vegetation cover within the multi-predator guild, suggesting livestock microhabitat risk-mitigation behaviors outweigh predator hunting strategies. While human perceptions generally aligned with ecologically predicted risk, identified divergences emphasize the importance of tailored conflict mitigation strategies to accommodate varying influences. Overall, the findings advocate for species-specific depredation risk analyses and the inclusion of human perceptions for a comprehensive spatial understanding of livestock depredation risk.

The effectiveness of video-based exercise training program for people with intellectual disability: a multicenter study.

To examine the effectiveness of a specially designed video-based exercise program in promoting physical and balance performance in people with intellectual disability. This study was a multicenter controlled trial. Participants with intellectual disability were divided into exercise group and control group by cluster sampling. The participants in the exercise group received 1 h exercise training sessions twice a week for 8 weeks, and the controls continued their usual care without exercise training. The exercises were specially designed to match the physical ability level of the participants classified as high and low, and a third group called "special" was designed for those wheelchair-bound persons with limited mobility. Elements of light-tempo music and animation were introduced in the videos to motivate the participants. Recording the exercises in video format makes it easier for the class instructors and participants to perform the exercises together, and ensure consistency across different exercise groups conducted in different centers. Each participant underwent the pre- and post-intervention assessment including 30-s chair stand repetitions, five-time chair stand duration, 4-m comfortable walk time, standing static balance level, 6-min walk test, and short physical performance battery score. These variables were compared within each group at pre- and post-intervention stages, and they were also compared between the two groups. A total of 180 participants were enrolled in 16 subcenters, including 160 participants in the exercise group and 20 participants in the control group. After 8 weeks of exercise training, there were significant improvements in their physical performance including 30-s chair stand repetitions and five-time chair stand duration, 4-m comfortable walk time and also 6-min walk test, within the exercise group (all P < 0.05). Approximately 39% of the participants in the exercise group also showed significant improvement in standing static balance level. No significant differences were found when compared with the control group participants who did not have any regular exercise participation. A specially designed video-based exercise program has demonstrated some positive effects on physical and balance performance after 8 weeks of training among adults with intellectual disability.

A co-designed mixed methods study on community-based gym exercise for non-ambulant adults with childhood onset disability

Purpose Explore community-based gym exercise for non-ambulant adults with childhood-onset disability. Materials and methods Non-ambulant adults with childhood-onset disability participated in four, weekly gym sessions co-facilitated by physiotherapists and exercise professionals. Practicalities of participating in the sessions were recorded via uptake and attrition, weekly surveys, and focus groups. Perspectives of those who designed/delivered the study were gathered via weekly debrief meetings. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively, qualitative data were analysed thematically. Results Ten non-ambulant adults with childhood-onset disability participated; 70% completed all exercise sessions. Focus groups identified three themes. “I wouldn’t be able to exercise…there’s no option for a community-based setting” described the lack of opportunities for exercise in gyms. “You don’t realise the benefit of coming here” highlighted benefits of exercise. “We can do better” had two sub-themes: problem solving and ingredients for community-based gym exercise. Weekly feedback and debrief meetings identified practicalities related to equipment, exercises, and collaborative working between facilitators. Conclusions Whilst there is an interest in community-based gym exercise for non-ambulant adults with childhood-onset disability, there remains a lack of inclusive gyms. Co-design of inclusive gym guidelines and condition-specific physical activity referral scheme may enhance opportunities for participation in gym exercise for adults with childhood-onset disability.

A Randomized Trial of Inspiratory Training in Children and Adolescents With Obesity.

Introduction: Children with obesity suffer excess dyspnea that contributes to sedentariness. Developing innovative strategies to increase exercise tolerance and participation in children with obesity is a high priority. Because inspiratory training (IT) has reduced dyspnea, we sought to assess IT in children with obesity. Methods: We conducted a 6-week randomized IT trial involving 8- to 17-year-olds with obesity. Participants were randomized 1:1 to either high [75% of maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP)] or low resistance control (15% of MIP) three times weekly. Assessments included adherence, patient satisfaction, and changes in inspiratory strength and endurance, dyspnea scores and total activity level. Results: Among 27 randomized, 24 (89%) completed the intervention. Total session adherence was 72% which did not differ between treatment groups. IT was safe, and more than 90% felt IT benefitted breathing and general health. IT led to a mean improvement (95% CI) in inspiratory strength measured by MIP of 10.0 cm H2O (-3.5, 23.6; paired t-test, p = 0.139) and inspiratory endurance of 8.9 (1.0, 16.8; paired t-test, p = 0.028); however, there was no significant difference between high- and low-treatment groups. IT led to significant reductions in dyspnea with daily activity (p < 0.001) and in prospectively reported dyspnea during exercise (p = 0.024). Among the high- versus low-treatment group, we noted a trend for reduced dyspnea with daily activity (p = 0.071) and increased daily steps (865 vs. -51, p = 0.079). Discussion: IT is safe and feasible for children with obesity and holds promise for reducing dyspnea and improving healthy activity in children with obesity. Breathe-Fit trial NCT05412134.

Train in Pain: A Review of Exercise Benefits and Application for Individuals With Musculoskeletal Pain

ABSTRACT Exercise is a safe and recommended treatment for individuals experiencing chronic musculoskeletal pain. After receiving medical clearance, strength and conditioning practitioners and clinicians may prescribe exercise for clients with comorbid pain conditions, representing a unique challenge in determining the appropriate exercise prescription. Although exercise is a recommended intervention for pain, pain can also act as a key barrier to exercise participation because of associated increases in pain intensity or location during activity. In addition, biopsychosocial factors integral to the pain experience may affect response to exercise and should be considered when developing an exercise plan of care for this population. Strength and conditioning professionals may also consider the role of contextual factors in the delivery of exercise, such as expectations for pain relief and therapeutic alliance. This narrative review provides an overview of the current evidence regarding exercise for individuals with musculoskeletal pain.

Lifestyle factors and subjective well‑being among older adults in China: A national community-based cohort study

There has been limited research on the relationship between health habits and subjective well-being (SWB) among Chinese oldest older adults. This study aims to explore lifestyle factors associated with SWB in this population. We analyzed data from three waves (2008–2014) of the CLHLS, including 28,683 older adults. Lifestyle factors analyzed included fruit and vegetable intake, smoking, alcohol consumption, physical exercise, and social participation. Results suggested that high frequency of fruit and vegetable intake, current and past physical exercise, and high levels of social participation were associated with increased SWB. SWB was lower in older adults who never smoked compared to persistent smokers and in those who never drank alcohol or ceased drinking compared to persistent drinkers. We encourage older adults to enhance SWB through increased fruit and vegetable intake, physical exercise, and social participation. However, quitting smoking and drinking may not necessarily improve SWB, particularly in the context of China.

EFFECTIVENESS OF EXERCISE VIA TELEHEALTH FOR CHRONIC DISEASE: UPDATED SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS OF EXERCISE INTERVENTIONS DELIVERED VIA VIDEOCONFERENCING

INTRODUCTION &amp; AIMS Videoconferencing exercise interventions (VC) involve the synchronous and remote delivery of exercise via a video-linked appointment. A 2022 review investigated the effectiveness and feasibility of VC for people with chronic disease. Considering the emergence of recent trials, this review aimed to investigate these findings with high-quality contemporary evidence. METHODS Databases were searched from 1st August 2021 (last date searched in previous review) to April 30th 2023 for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) VC in chronic disease. Meta-analyses were conducted for between-group comparisons of exercise capacity and quality of life for RCTs to determine effectiveness. Standardised Mean Difference (SMD) for pre-post quality of life data was used to combine assessment methods. Feasibility was assessed via session attendance rates, adherence to exercise prescription, safety, technical issues and participant satisfaction. Risk of bias was analysed using the Downs &amp; Black (D&amp;B) quality checklist and the certainty of evidence with GRADE. RESULTS Sixteen trials were included in the updated review. RCT-only meta-analyses identified effects favouring VC for exercise capacity (6MWT; Mean Difference (MD)=31.0m (95% CI: 8.3 to 53.6m), p=0.007) and quality of life (SMD=0.365 (95% CI: 0.096 to 0.633), p=0.008) in studies with non-exercising comparators. An effect favouring VC was observed for quality of life in exercising comparator studies (SMD=0.335 (95% CI: 0.078 to 0.592), p=0.011) but not for exercise capacity (MD=4.6m (95% CI: -7.4 to 16.7m), p=0.451). The RCT-only analysis identified good risk of bias (D&amp;B: 20.7±2.7/28), with GRADE certainty ratings of ‘Moderate’ for quality of life and exercise capacity outcomes. Of the new RCTs, session attendance was 74%, no serious adverse events related to VC were identified, 33% of sessions experienced technical issues and positive satisfaction outcomes were identified. CONCLUSION In patients with chronic disease, videoconferencing exercise interventions are feasible and effective for improving exercise capacity and quality of life.

RETHINKING THE MANAGEMENT OF HEALTH IN PEOPLE WITH DIABETES-RELATED FOOT ULCERS FROM AN AEP PERSPECTIVE: AN UPDATE FROM THE DFUEX STUDY

INTRODUCTION &amp; AIMS Current treatments for people with diabetes-related foot ulcers (DFUs) focus on foot outcomes - potentially at the expense of broader health and wellbeing considerations. There are barriers to exercise for people with DFU and hesitancy in promoting physical activity by clinicians. AEPs may have the clinical skills to help people with DFUs engage in safe and effective exercise. The aim of this study was to examine the impact of AEP supervised exercise intervention on cardiorespiratory fitness, health and wound healing in adults with DFU. METHODS Using a randomised control trial design (ANZTR registration: 12622000885796p) adults aged 18 to 70 years (n=32) with active DFU are being recruited from an interdisciplinary High-Risk Foot Service (iHRFS) at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Sydney Australia, and randomised to receive 12 weeks of supervised exercise (aerobic and resistance) training (Exercise) with usual care or usual care (Control) Measurements including fitness, metabolic and wound outcomes are acquired at baseline and after 12 weeks. RESULTS Preliminary baseline demographic, fitness and health data will be presented. Consideration for the scope of practice for AEPs in the multidisciplinary management of DFUs will be discussed incorporating observations and guidance on implementing exercise in a high risk DFU population, where there is limited patient and practitioner knowledge about safe and effective exercise options, and historical avoidance of physical activity to lessen the risk of wound deterioration. This will include consideration of aspects around exercise which are unique to people with DFUs, such as working with iHRFS, patient ambulation and transport, wound type and location, diversity of wound offloading devices and individual facilitators and barriers to exercise participation. CONCLUSIONS There is a need for robust evidence concerning the efficacy and safety of exercise intervention, and a need for strategies to engage AEPs into the multidisciplinary care of people with DFUs. Supported by the Exercise and Sports Science Australia Research Grant.

THE POTENTIAL ROLE OF EXERCISE IN DELAYING GENETIC DESTINY: EXAMINING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN EXERCISE AND KEY BIOMARKERS IN DOMINANTLY INHERITED ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE

INTRODUCTION Greater physical activity is associated with reduced risk for Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and lower levels of AD-related biomarkers, such as beta-amyloid (Aβ) and tau, measured in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and brain. A small proportion of Alzheimer’s disease (&amp;lt;1%) cases are caused by a rare dominant genetic mutation. The aim of the current study was to examine associations between self-reported exercise participation and AD-related biomarkers (from CSF and brain imaging) over time, in individuals we know will develop Alzheimer’s disease at an early age (i.e., dominant AD mutation carriers). METHODS The sample included n = 308 mutation carriers from the Dominantly Inherited Alzheimer’s Network (DIAN) study with data available for self-reported exercise participation, brain imaging (hippocampal volume, total brain volume, gray matter volume, white matter hyperintensities, brain Aβ levels), and biomarkers quantified from CSF (several Aβ and tau species and ratios). Participants were assessed regularly (time interval depending on mutation type) from baseline to 10+ years post-baseline. Associations between exercise and AD biomarkers (i.e., from brain imaging and CSF) were examined using linear mixed models, corrected for various confounding variables. RESULTS The sample had a mean age of 39.7 ± 10.8 years and were 56% female. Greater baseline exercise was associated with a slower decrease in right (B=0.06, p &amp;lt; 0.001) and left (B=0.06, p&amp;lt;0.05) hippocampal volume; and slower accumulation of brain Aβ (B=0.04, p&amp;lt;0.001). CONCLUSION These findings demonstrate that exercise is associated with more favourable profiles of AD-related biomarkers in those with ADAD mutations. This work may have implications for our understanding of how exercise influences disease development in late-onset sporadic AD. Nevertheless, the causal direction of our findings is difficult to ascertain, and future study designs investigating the therapeutic potential of exercise in both ADAD and late-onset AD should be considered.

EXERCISE PROGRAM WITHIN ADULT PSYCHIATRIC INPATIENT SERVICES FOR THOSE WITH DISORDERED EATING

INTRODUCTION &amp; AIMS Over one million Australians live with an eating disorder, with 40 – 80% reported to undertake dysfunctional exercise practices (e.g., compulsive exercise, exercise dependence). Dysfunctional exercise can be the first symptom to appear and the last symptom to resolved in eating disorder patients, with 41% of eating disorders patients relapsing into dysfunctional exercise patterns 4 to 9 months post inpatient treatment. We evaluated an accredited exercise physiology led program implemented for adult mental health inpatients with disordered eating and exercise behaviours to support patient outcomes and safe exercise participation. METHODS Data was collected as part of service evaluation and included patient characteristics, session data (e.g., mood and enjoyment via Exercise Enjoyment Scale) and patient outcomes (e.g., Compulsive Exercise Test (CET); Exercise Dependence Scale (EDS-21)). Characteristics of the cohort was reported and compared to clinical cut-offs, along with program feasibility measures. RESULTS Between Sep 2022 and Nov 2023, 20 female patients engaged in the program (mean age= 26 years). Of those 15 were diagnosed with Anorexia Nervosa, 16 with a co-occurring Personality Disorder and 9 with a Trauma Related Disorder. EDS-21 results showed 56% were symptomatic, and 33% exercise dependent, with 80% also presenting with suicidal ideation/self-harm. Across 137 service interactions, patients engaged 65% of the time, and 25% of the time deemed inappropriate. Pre-session mood was low (mean= -2.13 ± 1.46) with an average post-session mood improvement of + 4.46 Session enjoyment was high (mean=3.6±1.20) and no adverse events were recorded. CONCLUSIONS &amp; IMPLICATIONS Exercise supported by AEPs is safe for inpatients with disorder eating, with patients valuing engagement in services focused on supporting positive exercise relationships and behaviours. A tailored and evidence-based approach to exercise can improve acute mood of consumers.

THRIVING IN MOTION – YOUTH MOVES: MOVEMENT FOR YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH PROGRAM

CASE SETTING A Western Australia community exercise initiative supporting vulnerable youth experiencing poor mental health. Led by professionals and peers, our program offers a non-judgmental space for exercise and education, addressing discrimination, isolation, and service access barriers. Addressing a lack of physical activity options for at-risk groups, the program targets individuals affected or at risk of mental health disorders, recognizing that a quarter of youth face such challenges. TREATMENT An 8-week evidence-based program integrating mixed movement and education in alternative or education support settings. Tailored for at risk youth, the goal is to directly improve mental and physical health literacy, and social outcomes of participants through diverse exercise opportunities to manage and maintain thriving mental health. Specifically, we delivered and evaluated the feasibility of the program for at risk youth. RESULTS Since 2022, Thriving has delivered 43 8-week programs directly impacting 855 vulnerable youth in various metro (13) and regional (2) Western Australian locations, totalling 20, 860 exercise therapy hours. Forty-two collaborative partnerships and 15 staff have been involved in delivery. On average 85% of participants reported a score higher than 3/5 for program enjoyment, 80% of participants reported a score higher than 3/5 for motivation to return. REFLECTIONS/LEARNINGS Despite the abundance of community-based exercise and sporting organizations, a significant gap exists in their ability to address the needs of vulnerable youth, stemming from insufficient specialized skills and training. Informed by the achievements and insights of prior collaborations and projects, our program focuses on establishing inclusive activity environments for youth in low participation groups. Building on successful community relationships, we strive to encourage disengaged youth, allies, friends and families by offering tailored opportunities and pathways for meaningful exercise participation.

South African mental healthcare providers' views about exercise for people with mental illness.

People living with mental illness (PWMI) have significantly reduced life expectancy compared to the general population, yet mental healthcare providers (MHCPs) do not regularly prescribe exercise, despite its proven health benefits. This study aimed to evaluate South African MHCPs' views regarding exercise for PWMI. A cross-sectional descriptive study conducted across five public sector specialised psychiatric units in Gauteng. Mental healthcare providers were surveyed using the Exercise in Mental Illness Questionnaire - Health Professionals Version. Most participants were nurses (49.1%) and doctors (26.2%) and reported no prior formal training in exercise prescription (79.4%). The vast majority (up to 89.7%) agreed regarding the physical benefits of exercise, particularly cardiometabolic benefits. The most common barriers, as perceived by MHCPs, to exercise participation for PWMI were: stigma (56.5%) and medication side effects (56.5%). The majority (76.2%) reported prescribing exercise for PWMI at least 'occasionally'. The method most frequently used was personal discussion (77.3%) and aerobic exercise was most frequently recommended (81.0%). Specific instructions regarding physical activity recommendations however were often not provided. Regarding MHCPs personal exercise habits, only a third (34%) met physical activity guidelines. Most MHCPs (92.1%) indicated an interest in further training regarding exercise for PWMI. Mental healthcare providers were supportive of exercise for PWMI. Strategies to address the stigma around mental illness and medication side-effects, to improve training regarding exercise prescription, as well as the exercise habits of MHCPs themselves, and collaboration with exercise professionals and organisations are recommended. This study provides insight into the views of South African MHCPs regarding exercise for PWMI.

P069 Moving more with Axial Spondyloarthritis - a short survey to help design future exercise studies

Abstract Background/Aims Axial Spondyloarthritis (AxSpA) is an inflammatory arthritis affecting 0.5-1.0% of people in the UK. Physical activity guidance for people living with AxSpA from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence is vague. Individualised, structured aerobic exercise is recommended without any direction towards exercise type, frequency, intensity, or acknowledgement of physical limitations to an individual’s environment which may prevent exercise participation. Consequently, the proportion of people with AxSpA meeting the World Health Organisation physical activity recommendations (&amp;gt;150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week) is significantly lower than the general population. Therefore, a short survey was administered to people with AxSpA to understand types of physical activities they would like to participate in, and any common barriers to exercise participation. Methods The National Axial Spondyloarthritis Society (NASS) invited subscribers to their e-newsletter with lived experience to complete a short online survey. Respondents were asked ‘which of the following activities would you like to include as part of your usual lifestyle?’ ‘What would prevent you from taking part in the activities above?’ and ‘Do you already include any of the physical activities in your usual lifestyle?’ Respondents were allowed to choose multiple options from a range of activities and barriers. Results 266 people living with AxSpA (68% women, 31% men, 1% non-binary, 94% white British/Irish) responded. Walking was most selected for activities respondents would like to be included as part of their lifestyle (83%), followed by stretching/flexibility exercises (61%), swimming (46%), weight training and resistance exercise (41%), and cycling (33%). Only eight respondents (3%) stated hydrotherapy which is traditionally advocated as exercise therapy in AxSpA. Worries about pain and flare ups (57%), fatigue (45%), time (39%), cost (27%), not knowing enough about how much activity to do (22%), and lack of available facilities (20%) were common barriers. Conclusion To maximise reach and benefit, exercise guidance needs to relate to exercise that people with AxSpA would like to or already do; the benefits of exercise can only be realised if people want to participate. The responses emphasise the need for guidance relating to inclusive models of exercise. This includes exercise such as walking that is flexible and adaptable to limitations of time and does not require additional cost, equipment, or facilities. The results also highlight the importance of including outcome assessments of pain, flare frequency, and fatigue. Disclosure M. Roberts: None. S. Qooja: None. A. Moorthy: Consultancies; AM has received speaker fees from Lilly, Novartis, Galapagos, and UCB. L. Bishop: Grants/research support; NCB has received funding from NASS..

Piloting the effectiveness of the Workout on Wheels Internet Intervention (WOWii) program among individuals with mobility disabilities

BackgroundDoing any amount of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity yields health benefits. Individuals with mobility disabilities are among the least physically active Americans and limited evidence indicates effective strategies to promote physical activity among this group. ObjectiveExamine whether a 16-week virtual intervention program (Workout on Wheels internet intervention, WOWii) increases exercise engagement among mobility impaired individuals. MethodsParticipants recruited through community organizations that provide services to individuals with disabilities. The WOWii program is comprised of 3 core components: 16 weeks of virtual intervention delivery and access to the WOWii website; staff and peer support; an exercise package that included an activity tracker and heart rate monitor, pedal exerciser, and therabands. ResultsTen people enrolled. Participants demonstrated good program engagement, attending an average of 14.1 ± 2.1 of the 16 virtual meetings and completing an average of 10.6 ± 5.6 weekly activities. Exercise data revealed that participants increased their time spent in aerobic exercise from an average of two days a week performing 32 ± 22 min during week one to an average of five days a week doing 127 ± 143 min in the final WOWii week. Only half continued to exercise over the two months once WOWii virtual meetings ended. ConclusionWOWii program delivery successfully promoted increased exercise participation for people with mobility disabilities over the 16 intervention weeks. Future studies should investigate approaches to promote exercise maintenance beyond program delivery.

Use of wearable devices to monitor post-operative activity following cardiac surgery: a systematic scoping review.

There is an emerging trend of using wearable digital technology to monitor patient activity levels in acute care contexts. However, the overall extent and quality of evidence for their use in acute cardiac surgery care are unclear. The purpose of this systematic scoping review was to evaluate current literature regarding the use of wearable activity trackers/accelerometers to monitor patient activity levels in the first 30 days following cardiac surgery. A systematic scoping review was conducted. A search of CINAHL and MEDLINE Complete databases identified all peer reviewed research evidence published in English between 2010 and 2023. Studies evaluating the use of wearable technology in adults who had undergone coronary artery bypass graft surgery and valve replacement were included. Study data were summarized thematically. A total of 853 citations were identified. Once duplicates were removed, 816 studies were screened by title and abstract, 54 full-text studies were assessed for eligibility, and 11 studies were included. Accelerometers were able to capture changing exercise and physical activity levels over an acute care admission. Device use was acceptable to clinicians and patients. Low activity levels in the early post-operative period were associated with longer length of stay and higher 30-day readmissions. Wearable devices are acceptable and feasible to use in acute care. The use of wearable activity trackers by acute cardiac patients may increase patient participation in exercise and identify more sedentary patients who are a greater risk of increased length of stay and hospital readmission.

Perceptions on the distribution, threats, strandings, and conservation of the Antillean manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus) in the Río Dulce National Park, Izabal, Guatemala

The Antillean manatee in Guatemala faces multiple threats resulting from habitat loss and human interactions such as motorboat collisions and poaching. While some conservation efforts have been initiated in Río Dulce National Park (RDNP), there is a lack of studies examining the current perceptions of threats to the species. This knowledge gap may hinder the development of effective conservation strategies that consider both the species and local communities. Our objective was to analyze the perceptions of key local stakeholders concerning the Antillean manatee, including its distribution, threats, attention to strandings, and the current status of conservation in the protected area of RDNP. From July to October 2019, we conducted 50 semi-structured interviews with technicians and river users, such as fishermen and boat captains. Additionally, we held two workshops: one aimed at developing a participatory mapping exercise and another to validate the information. Each workshop was divided into two groups: one for technicians and another for river users. A total of 68 people participated in the workshops, the majority of respondents were male (n = 47), ranging in age from 19 to 71, and predominantly local to the area. Their activities in the river included fishing, biological monitoring, transportation, and providing tourism services. Perceived threats to the Antillean manatee included motorboat collisions, poaching, bycatch, habitat degradation, and water pollution. The focus groups also identified key observations, such as mother-calf sightings, specific areas of risk for manatee-boat collisions, areas with a higher presence of aquatic vegetation, and additional threats such as habitat degradation and poaching. Our results demonstrate that stakeholders possess a fundamental understanding of the manatee, its threats, and its distribution. They also highlight a noticeable lack of knowledge, specifically regarding the attention given to manatee strandings. It is recommended that conservation strategies include environmental education adapted to local conditions, as well as the promotion of manatee studies and their dissemination at the local level, including attention to strandings in the area.

‘Keeping up with the Korean Yeojas’: the paradox of Korean women’s participation of aesthetic exercise in contemporary Korea

Over the past decade, there has been a noticeable increase in the engagement of Korean women (‘yeoja’ in Korean translation) in physical activities. Despite discussions emphasizing active exercise and fitness, motivations for women’s participation have often been centered around weight management and dieting. This study explores the experiences of Korean women participating in aesthetic exercise – physical activities such as yoga, Pilates, and pole fitness which focus on female-appropriate weight management. Aesthetic exercise participation emerges as a complex and paradoxical phenomenon, blending feminized workouts, ideal body images, and individual aspirations to attain social standards. Participants express ambivalence, viewing exercise as both a ‘healthy way of losing’ and a means to ‘keep up with’ societal ideals of the female body. Thus, it highlights the intricate interplay between societal expectations, personal goals, and the pursuit of an envisioned ideal, offering insights into the dynamic nature of women’s involvement in aesthetic exercise in the Korean context.

A Longitudinal Theory-Based Investigation of How Environmental Aesthetics Predicts Home-Based Exercise.

Environmental aesthetics is a recognized macro environmental correlate of physical activity participation. Extrapolating this effect, we hypothesize this variable to also function as a determinant of exercise participation in the microenvironment , such as the home. Specifically, we predict that the environmental aesthetics of the location of cardio and resistance training equipment will predict determinants of exercise participation within the integrated behavior change model. Adult owners of exercise equipment ( N = 231) completed measures on the environmental aesthetics of their cardio and resistance training equipment, exercise time, and constructs from the integrated behavior change model across three consecutive monthly surveys. Study hypotheses were tested using multilevel structural equation modeling with participants (level 2) nested within time (level 1). The model revealed predictive effects of intention, habit, and planning on exercise participation over time. The findings indicated a total effect of autonomous motivation on intention and habit. In addition, environmental aesthetics of cardio and strength training equipment predicted autonomous motivation, along with habit and intention when accounting for indirect effects. Finally, planning moderated the intention-behavior relationship, indicating that participants who scored higher on planning were more likely to translate their intentions to behavior. These findings provide informative notes for designing effective home-based exercise programs, which have increased in popularity over the past recent years. Specifically, experimental studies that provide exercise equipment should ensure that the location of the equipment is appealing to the participant to increase the likelihood equipment use and exercise engagement.

A Cross-Sectional Study of Sports Food Consumption Patterns, Experiences, and Perceptions amongst Non-Athletes in Australia.

Sports foods are designed for athletes, yet their availability, type, and sales have increased over the past decade, likely driven by non-athlete use. This could lead to detrimental health outcomes via over/misuse or unwanted side effects. The aim of this study was to describe sports food consumption patterns and associated drivers, consumption reasons, perception of risks, and side effects experienced amongst non-athletes in Australia. In 2022, n = 307 non-athlete Australian adults (18-65 years) completed an online cross-sectional survey including closed-ended (consumption patterns, factors, and exercise participation) and open-ended questions (reasons for consumption, risk perception, and side effects experienced). Descriptive statistics (frequency and percent) described the sample. Ordinal logistic regression was used for univariate associations and a multivariate model was used to determine relationships between sports food consumption proxy and significant univariate associations. The themes were analysed via inductive thematic analysis using NVivo 14. Females consumed sports foods most frequently, 65% of participants consumed three or more sports foods, and participants with higher sports food consumption/frequency were less likely to perceive risks or experience side effects. The main reason for consumption was protein intake, digestion/stomach issues were the main perceived risks, and the main side effect was bloating. Despite understanding the risks and side effects, non-athlete consumers continue to use numerous sports foods, which appear to be influenced by sociodemographic factors and packaging labels. Tighter regulation of packaging-label information would ensure safer and more informed consumption.

What determines participation in sport for older adults in England: A multilevel analysis of Active Lives data.

Physical inactivity within an ageing population is an ongoing public health concern for policymakers. Engagement in sport forms a foundation of policy designed to encourage physical activity participation and improve health and wellbeing. This study aimed to (i) understand the extent to which older adults participate in sport and the (ii) correlates that predict this involvement within an English population sample of older adults. A further aim was (iii) to examine the extent in which sports participation may vary due to the opportunity provided across Active Partnerships in England. To address this, a multi-level analysis framed through COM-B was conducted of the 2021 English Active Lives dataset (i.e., during the COVID-19 pandemic). The Active Lives survey provides population-level insight into sport, exercise, and physical activity participation across England. It samples upwards of n = 180,000 participants beyond the age of 16 years and asks questions on factors that influence participation. Our findings drawn from a sample of n = 68,808 older adults (i.e., >60-years of age) indicate that when accounting for variation across regions sports participation was significantly predicted by age (β = -.246, p = .040) and multiple deprivation (β = .706, p = .030). Further, our analysis suggests sports participation across regions is associated with changes in the perceptions of opportunity to participate (β = -28.70, p = .001). As the UK transitions from the COVID-19 pandemic, findings have implications for the promotion of sports participation for older adults, in that local, regional, and national stakeholders must do more to change perceptions of social and physical opportunity within an ageing population. This may be achieved through adaptations to the recreational sporting landscape, raising awareness, and supportive policy changes on a national level.