Physical Activity Participation Research Articles

Effectiveness of an exercise therapy program based on sports in adults with acquired brain injury: a randomized controlled trial

To examine the effects of a sport-based exercise therapy program combined with usual care (sET+UC) compared with usual care alone (UC) on health-related quality of life, upper limb motor control, functional capacity, mobility, balance, and physical activity participation in ambulant adults with acquired brain injury (ABI). Single-blind, parallel-group, randomized controlled trial. Rehabilitation center. Twenty-three adults with ABI (82.6% stroke; 17 males; mean age of 59.6±10.3 yr) INTERVENTION: Participants received either sET+UC (n=11) or UC (n=12). The sET+UC group received sixteen 60-minute sessions of a sport-based ET program in addition to sixteen 60-minute sessions of usual care, whereas the UC group attended usual care only. Primary outcome measures were health-related quality of life (Short Form-36, SF-36) and upper limb motor control (Fugl Meyer-Upper Extremity; FM-UE), while the secondary included functional capacity (6-Minute Walk Test, 10-Meter Walk Test), mobility (Timed Up and Go Test), balance (Berg Balance Scale) and physical activity participation (Global Physical Activity Questionnaire). Significant differences were found in all outcome analyses at post-intervention when comparing between groups. The sET+UC group showed significant improvements in both the physical (p=.027, r=.46) and mental component summary (p=.001, r=.71) of the SF-36 as well as FM-UE (p=.004, r=.60), with large effect sizes. In turn, all secondary outcomes were also significantly improved in this group (all p<.05 r>.05). In contrast, the UC group showed slight improvements in post-intervention scores but did not reach significance in any of these measures. This study shows that a sport-based exercise therapy program combined with usual care can effectively improve all the aforementioned outcomes measures in ABI population. Further research with larger sample sizes and follow-up assessments is crucial to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the long-term effects of the intervention in this specific population.

The moderating influence of social cognition in the relationship between affect and physical activity in adolescents: An ecological momentary assessment study

BackgroundAffective states influence subsequent engagement in physical activity, but the nature of this relationship varies substantially from person-to-person (e.g., negative affect may precede increased physical activity for some adolescents and decreased for others). PurposeExplore which variables may explain the individual differences in the relationship between incidental affect and moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA). MethodsThis study explores social cognitive variables as moderators of the relationship between incidental affect and MVPA through a 20-day ecological momentary assessment (EMA) study, in which 100 adolescents aged 13–18 years old (M = 14.45, SD = 1.37) were asked to complete a baseline assessment of their self-efficacy and outcome expectancies. Subsequently, wore an Actigraph (wGT3X-BT) accelerometer 24 h per day on their non-dominant wrist and answered EMA surveys assessing affect 4 times per day using time-based signaling. ResultsWithin-person negative affect predicted MVPA (b = −0.15 p < .05) with 95% CI [-0.29, −0.01], as did between-person negative affect (b = 0.08 p < .05) with 95% CI [0.01, 0.15]. Additionally, there was a significant interaction between within-person negative affect and self-efficacy such that for individuals low in self-efficacy (<2.08 on a 5-point scale) increased negative affect led to decreased MVPA (b = −0.06, p < .05), but not for individuals high in self-efficacy (>5.14 on a 5-point scale; b = 0.07, p < .05). ConclusionsResults indicate that self-efficacy is an important target for overcoming the deleterious effects of momentary negative affect on MVPA and suggests just-in-time intervention techniques for individuals who are typical or low in self-efficacy.

Associations Between Physical Activity, Systemic Inflammation, and Hospital Admissions in Adults With Heart Failure

Purpose: Among individuals with diagnosed heart failure (HF), the impact of physical activity on systemic inflammation and risk of hospital admissions remains unclear. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the associations between physical activity and (1) systemic inflammation measured through C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and (2) frequency of hospital admissions in those with HF. Methods: We used data from the National Health and Nutrition Evaluation Survey in this observational cross-sectional study to include 377 community-dwelling adults with HF. Demographic, clinical, and functional variables were extracted from the data and included in the regression models as covariates during analysis. Associations between activity and hospital admissions were examined using Poisson regression. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used for association between CRP and physical activity. Results: We found a direct linear relationship between CRP levels and hospital admissions, with higher levels of CRP significantly associated with greater number of hospital admissions in HF (incidence rate ratio [IRR] = 1.18, P &lt; .001). Similarly, participating in vigorous activity was significantly associated with decreased expected rate of hospital admissions (IRR = 0.38, P = .013 (C.I. = 0.18–0.80) and with a significant decrease in the CRP levels (B = −0.44, P = .018 (C.I. = −0.80 to −0.83). Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study using population-level data to examine the association between physical activity level, systemic inflammation, and hospitalizations in individuals with HF. The findings of this study demonstrate that irrespective of sex, engagement in physical activity at higher intensity levels is strongly associated with favorable health outcomes in older adults with HF.

Understanding the Relationship Between Attachment Orientation and Physical Activity Participation: An Exploratory Study.

Physical inactivity is recognized as a global health challenge. Attachment theory may provide insight into individual physical activity (PA) patterns, informing the development of PA interventions to promote the maintenance of behavior change. This study investigated the associations between attachment orientation and why and how individuals engage in PA. Given the association between attachment and sensory processing, this study also investigated the link between sensory processing and PA participation. Participants (N = 141) completed an online questionnaire that included the Modified Experiences of Close Relationships Scale and the Highly Sensitive Person Scale. The relationship between attachment orientation and sensory processing patterns, and preference for PA participation were analyzed using 2-sided independent t tests. Attachment avoidance, attachment anxiety, and sensory sensitivity were significantly related to participants' preference for PA participation in theoretically consistent ways. Avoidantly attached individuals were less likely to participate in PA as a form of social interaction (mean = 8.57, SD = 2.87, P = .005, d = 0.48). Anxiously attached individuals were more likely to participate in PA to support weight management (mean = 37.02, SD = 11.54, P = .01, d = -0.46) or if recommended by a health professional (mean = 43.55, SD = 12.45, P = .039, d = -0.88). Sensory sensitive individuals were more likely to participate in PA alone (mean = 124.11, SD = 19.23, P = .005, d = -0.510), and more likely to prefer light-intensity forms of PA (mean = 133.29, SD = 12.67, F3,123 = 5.49, P = .001). Findings highlight the potential value of considering an individual's attachment orientation and sensory processing patterns in the development of PA interventions. This may help to address the challenges of PA participation, by individually tailoring interventions to participants.

Exploring the relationship between attachment orientation and physical activity participation

Exploring the relationship between attachment orientation and physical activity participation

More Barriers, Less Benefits: Physical Activity Participation Among LGBTQ+ College Students

More Barriers, Less Benefits: Physical Activity Participation Among LGBTQ+ College Students

Physical Activity Participation By Intensity &amp; Time Of Day Among Children

Physical Activity Participation By Intensity &amp; Time Of Day Among Children

An acceptability and feasibility investigation of a community-based motor program for autistic children with moderate and high support needs

BackgroundGeneral motor impairments are ubiquitous in Autism and are positively correlated with autism symptom severity. This study assessed the feasibility and acceptability of a 13-week community-based motor program for autistic children with moderate and high support needs (MHS). MethodIn this exploratory single arm within-subject study, 10 autistic children with MHS, ages 4–10 years, completed a community-based motor program delivered in a one-on-one format by therapists. Feasibility was determined through recruitment, retention, attendance, enjoyment, engagement and useability of motor, physical activity (PA), and behavioural assessment tools. Thematic analysis evaluated post-intervention semi-structured parent interviews. ResultsHigh program attendance and retention were demonstrated, and therapists reported child engagement and enjoyment were high. Identified themes revealed parents perceived unexpected substantial positive impacts including improvements in social, motor, and behavioural outcomes. They highly valued both the program and the therapeutic relationships fostered within it. Although parents of the children with the higher support needs reported the most substantial improvements, these children were unable to score on motor assessments due to difficulties following instructions and off-task behaviours. Additionally, only four participants wore an accelerometer-based PA monitor. ConclusionsThis community-based motor program was considered feasible and acceptable by the children’s parents, and qualitative findings provided valuable insights into clinical practice for children with MHS. However, recruitment challenges and assessment tools being unfeasible for children with higher support needs led to low participant numbers. Future evaluations should explore alternative assessment measures and study designs, given the challenges associated with studying such a heterogenous and complex group.

Together towards better executive functions? Effects of acute cognitively demanding physical activity and social interaction on inhibition

Background and aimsResearch has shown that acute physical activity (PA) improves inhibition performance. However, further information is needed on potential moderators that may influence this effect. Since social interaction (SoI) was proposed as an important PA characteristic influencing the PA-inhibition relation, this study examines the effects of acute PA and SoI on inhibition. MethodsIn a 2 × 2 within-subject design, 96 participants (17–26 years, M = 20.5; SD = 1.7, 50% female) underwent four experimental conditions, consisting of a cognitively challenging (exer-)game varying in PA (PA/no PA) and SoI (SoI/no SoI). After each condition, inhibition performance was assessed using the Eriksen Flanker Task. ResultsRepeated measures ANOVAs revealed that acute PA enhanced inhibition, leading to faster reaction times (ƞ2p = 0.169) and higher accuracy rates (ƞ2p = 0.090). However, the results showed speed-accuracy trade-offs for SoI, with faster reaction times (ƞ2p = 0.041) and lower accuracy rates (ƞ2p = 0.140). No interaction effects for PA and SoI on inhibition were observed (ƞ2ps = 0.005–0.036). ConclusionOur findings confirm that an acute bout of cognitively challenging PA can enhance inhibition performance but has no joint effects with SoI, which facilitated performance speed but worsened accuracy. Likely, the physically and cognitively challenging nature of the exergaming bout may have limited room for further improvement by SoI. Future acute PA studies should jointly explore the role of SoI and cognitive engagement in acute PA to identify an optimal pattern of task and context factors for reaping executive functions (EFs) gains.

Moderate physical activity and higher frequency are inversely associated with incidence of frailty in middle-aged and older population: a 4-year longitudinal study in Europe.

Global aging is leading to an increase in frailty patients, and physical activity (PA) may have an impact on frail in middle-aged and older population. This study aimed to explore the relationship between the frequency of different PA intensities and the incidence and prevalence of frailty in middle-aged and older adults based on the Survey of Health, Ageing, and Retirement in Europe (SHARE). Self-reported questionnaires were used to obtain information on demographics and PA, and frailty was assessed using the SHARE Frailty Instrument (SHARE-FI). Cox regression and logistic regression models were used to explore the association between PA and frailty and stratified according to middle or old age. Among 6315 baseline non-frail participants aged 44-96years, 16.1% developed frailty over 4years, with higher incidence and prevalence in women (P < 0.05). Women accounting for 55.80% of the sample. The frequency of participants participating in sports decreased over 4years (P < 0.05). Compared with participants who engaged in PA more than once a week, participants who engaged in moderated PA less frequently had a higher risk of new-onset frailty (HR: 3.174-6.115), and participants who engaged in vigorous PA 1-3 times a month had a higher risk of new-onset frailty (HR: 1.335). Participation in low-frequency moderate PA and vigorous PA 1-3 times per month were positively associated with the prevalence of frailty (P < 0.05). Physical activity frequency decreases with age in middle-aged and older adults. Those adults who engage in moderate PA more than once a week have a lower risk of incidence of frailty, compared to those with more sedentary life-styles. Additionally, women need to pay more attention to frailty management.

Impact of premenstrual tension syndrome on academic performance among female university students from the United Arab Emirates: A cross-sectional study.

Premenstrual tension syndrome can vary in type and severity among females, potentially affecting their academic performance. This study aims to examine the prevalence and severity of premenstrual tension syndrome symptoms in female university students and their impact on academics. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among female university students from Ras Al Khaimah, UAE over 6 months, from January 1, 2022 to June 30, 2022. The updated premenstrual tension syndrome self-rating scale questionnaire was used to assess the prevalence and severity of symptoms. A total of 251 respondents were included in the study. The chi-square test was used to determine the association between PMT and academic performance. The results showed that 78.9% of the participants experienced premenstrual tension syndrome, with 16.3% of them reporting premenstrual dysphoric disorder. The majority of participants reported mild to moderate symptoms, with anxiety and depressed mood being the most common psychological symptoms. In terms of behavioral symptoms, physical symptoms and feeling overwhelmed were the most prevalent. Furthermore, 90% of participants reported a negative impact on their academic performance, with paying attention in class being the most affected. The study also found that PMT disorder had a significant impact on physical activities and extracurricular activities. Our study showed a high prevalence of premenstrual disorders among female students and their influence on physical activity and extracurricular participation. The study highlights the importance of implementing therapies for PMT syndrome and providing support to improve academic performance and overall quality of life.

Effects of an integrated lifestyle intervention for overweight and obese breast cancer survivors: A quasi-experimental study

PurposeThis study aimed to identify the effects of an integrated lifestyle intervention on health-promoting behavior, depression, body composition, and quality of life for overweight and obese breast cancer survivors. MethodsThis study used a quasi-experimental design with a non-equivalent control group pretest-posttest. The participants were 42 overweight and obese breast cancer survivors. An integrated lifestyle intervention was implemented for eight weeks and comprised eight sessions on diet education, physical activity, stress management, and spousal participation. Outcomes for health-promoting behavior, depression, marital intimacy, body composition, natural killer cell activity, and quality of life were measured. ResultsThe experimental group scored significantly higher than the control group for health-promoting behavior (t = 2.912, p = .007), marital intimacy (t = 2.306, p = .021), and quality of life (t = 2.559, p = .014). Moreover, depression was significantly lower in the experimental group than in the control group (t = −2.723, p = .013). ConclusionThis study demonstrated that the integrated lifestyle intervention increased health-promoting behavior, marital intimacy, and quality of life and reduced depression among overweight and obese breast cancer survivors. Integrated lifestyle interventions can have a positive effect in communities and in clinical environment to improve health and quality of life among overweight and obese breast cancer survivors.

Sociodemographic Characteristics Of Physical Activity Participation Among African Immigrants In The African Immigrant Health Study

Sociodemographic Characteristics Of Physical Activity Participation Among African Immigrants In The African Immigrant Health Study

Basic Psychological Need Satisfaction as Correlates of Physical Activity Trajectories During Adolescence.

This analysis aimed to (1) identify longitudinal joint trajectories of participation in organized and unorganized physical activity contexts, and level of daily moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and (2) assess whether basic psychological need satisfaction during adolescence differentiates between membership in different physical activity trajectories. Participants (n = 888; 56% girls) reported their involvement in 36 different physical activities, level of MVPA, and their perceived satisfaction of competence, autonomy, and relatedness satisfaction in physical activity up to three times per year, over 8 years (from ages 10 to 17 years). Group-based multi-trajectory models were used to identify longitudinal joint trajectories of physical activity participation. We estimated a multinomial logistic regression model for membership in a physical activity trajectory by including individual-level intercepts and slopes for each psychological need obtained using mixed models over the 24 cycles modelized as natural cubic splines. Five longitudinal trajectory groups emerged: Non-participants, Dropouts, Active in unorganized physical activities, Active in organized physical activities, and Active through a variety of activities. Relative to Non-participants, we identify a dose-response relationship in baseline competence and membership in the higher active trajectory groups. In addition, a positive change in competence in early adolescence predicted membership in all three Active trajectory groups.

The Role of Intention, Behavioral Regulation, and Physical Activity Behavior in the Prediction of Physical Activity Identity across Time.

Physical activity identity represents an important determinant of sustained physical activity behavior. The purpose of this investigation was to examine whether intention, behavioral regulation, and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) behavior explain significant variation in physical activity identity across time. Using a repeated measures observational design, lower-active adults new or returning to physical activity participation (N = 66) completed measures of study variables every three weeks over the course of a nine-week period (four assessments total). Based on the results of mixed-effects regression modelling, there was a small, non-significant increase in physical activity identity across time (b = 0.07, p = 0.13). Intention, MVPA, and behavioral regulation mostly had significant (ps < 0.05) bivariate correlations with physical activity identity at the same time point of assessment. Behavioral regulation explained significant variation in physical activity identity across time (b = 0.26, p < 0.0001), but intention and MVPA were non-significant (ps > 0.05) after including a random intercept and controlling for behavioral regulation. Identity was resistant to change among new physical activity initiates in this study and longer time frames of assessment are needed (e.g., six months). Behavioral regulation should be examined as a determinant of physical activity identity in future investigations.

Physical Activity Engagement Associated With Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex Connectivity In Traumatic Brain Injury

Physical Activity Engagement Associated With Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex Connectivity In Traumatic Brain Injury

The impact of perception bias for cardiovascular disease risk on physical activity and dietary habits

ObjectiveCardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a significant public health challenge in China. Accurate perception of individual CVD risk is crucial for timely intervention and preventive strategies. This study aims to determine the alignment between CVD risk perception levels and objectively calculated CVD risk levels, then investigate the disparity in physical activity and healthy diet habits among distinct CVD risk perception categories. MethodsFrom March to August 2022, a cross-sectional survey was conducted in Zhejiang Province using convenience sampling. Participants aged between 20 and 80 years, without prior diagnosis of CVD were included. CVD risk perception was evaluated with the Chinese version of the Attitude and Beliefs about Cardiovascular Disease Risk Questionnaire (ABCD-C), while objective CVD risk was assessed through the Prediction for Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Risk (China-PAR) model. Participants’ demographic information, self-reported physical activity, and healthy diet score were also collected. ResultsA total of 739 participants were included in the final analysis. Less than a third of participants (29.3%) accurately perceived their CVD risk, while 64.5% over-perceived it and 6.2% under-perceived it. Notably, half of the individuals (50.0%) with high CVD risk under-perceived their actual risk. Compared to the accurate perception group, individuals aged 60-80 years old (OR = 6.569), currently drinking (OR = 3.059), and with hypertension (OR = 2.352) were more likely to under-perceive their CVD risk. Meanwhile, participants aged 40-<60 years old (OR = 2.462) and employed (OR = 2.352) were more likely to over-perceive their risk. The proportion of individuals engaging in physical activity was lowest in the under-perception group, although the difference among the three groups was not statistically significant (χ2=2.556, P=0.278). In addition, the proportion of individuals practicing healthy diet habits was also lowest in the under-perception group, and a significant statistical difference was observed among the three groups (χ2=10.310, P=0.006). ConclusionOnly a small proportion of participants accurately perceived their CVD risk, especially among those with high actual CVD risk. Individuals in the under-perceived CVD risk group exhibited the lowest rates of physical activity engagement and healthy diet adherence. Healthcare professionals should prioritize implementing personalized CVD risk communication strategies tailored to specific subgroups to enhance the accuracy of risk perception.

Barriers and Facilitators for Physical Activity Among Children and Youth With Autism-A Scoping Review.

The purpose of this scoping review was to systematically synthesize barriers and facilitators for physical activity (PA) among children and youth with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) across the socioecological model. Five electronic databases were searched in March 2022 for studies examining barriers and facilitators for PA among children and youth with ASD. An updated search was performed in April 2024. The framework synthesis method was utilized, and the socioecological model was the chosen framework. Fifty-four studies published from 2008 to 2024 were included. Among the included studies, 57% included the perspectives of children and youth with ASD alone or together with proxies (eg,parents, teachers, and coaches), while 43% included only the perspectives of proxies. Barriers and facilitators on the intrapersonal and interpersonal levels were most substantial. The analysis led to 2 main categories of barriers and facilitators, those unique to children and youth with ASD, and those similar to what had been identified through research on children and youth, both typically developing and with other disabilities. This comprehensive scoping review shows the complexity of factors contributing to barriers and facilitators for PA among children and youth with ASD, and highlights both the factors unique to this population and more general factors affecting PA participation. The findings from this synthesis might be used to guide the development of inclusive PA in physical education, organized sports, and other community PA arenas.

The Effect of Physical Education with a Humanistic Approach on the Physical Activity Level and Physical Fitness in Shy Children

Background: Shy children often avoid interacting with their peers, which can restrict their participation in physical activities and impact their physical fitness. Therefore, it is essential to offer specific support and strategies to assist these children in increasing their involvement and enhancing their physical fitness. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate how physical education, utilizing a humanistic approach, impacts the physical fitness and daily physical activity behavior of shy children. Methods: In order to achieve this, a quasi-experimental field study was planned with pre- and post-tests including a control group. Participants were 9 to 10-year-old elementary school girls from Tehran, selected based on the Chick-Briggs Shyness Scale Physical fitness was measured using tests for cardiorespiratory endurance, agility, muscular endurance, muscular strength, and flexibility. The physical Activity Questionnaire for Children (PAQ-C) was utilized in assessing children's attitude towards physical activity. The experimental group (n = 15) received a physical education course with a humanistic approach using the teaching physical and social responsibility (TPSR) model, while the control group (n = 15) maintained their usual daily routines. Results: The experimental group showed significant improvements in physical activity levels, muscular endurance, and flexibility compared to the control group. A humanistic, game-based educational approach using the TPSR model can effectively improve certain components of physical fitness and promote a positive attitude towards physical activity in shy children. Conclusions: This approach can help teachers and coaches better understand and assist this group of children in overcoming the negative relationship between shyness, sports participation, and physical fitness.

The Association Between Lifestyle Factors and Mental Well-being among Dental Students

Dentistry can be considered a challenging field, with dental students often experiencing high levels of stress and poor mental health. Hence, maintaining mental well-being is important so that dental students can cope with their stressors effectively. Lifestyle factors like physical activity, sleep problems, and addictions impact the levels of mental well-being. This paper aimed to identify the association between dental students’ lifestyle factors and mental well-being. This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among all the undergraduate dental students at a university in Malaysia. Data were collected by using a self-administered questionnaire [which included questions on demographic background, lifestyle factors, and the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale (WEMWBS)] and analysed using SPSS (version 26.0). Out of the surveyed students, 83.2% responded. The mean WEMWBS score for this study population was 46.09 ± 7.93. The results showed that engagement in physical activity positively affected mental well-being scores, while the presence of sleep-related problems was associated with lower mental well-being scores. Encouraging the adoption of healthier lifestyle factors, such as regular physical activity and practising good sleep hygiene along with the intervention of sleep-related problems, could improve mental well-being levels among dental students significantly.