Physical Activity Program Research Articles

Enablers and barriers to participation in physical activity programs while hospitalized after burn injury: The patient perspective.

Enablers and barriers to participation in physical activity programs while hospitalized after burn injury: The patient perspective.

Novel uses of healthcare technology for individuals with mild to moderate hip or knee osteoarthritis: The technology, exercise and activity prescription for enhanced mobility (TEAM) study randomized controlled trial protocol.

Patient education, physical activity, and exercise are recommended as first-line treatments for mild to moderate hip and knee osteoarthritis (OA). We developed two novel healthcare interventions: an electronic medical record-embedded physical activity prescription tool (PARx) for physicians, and a free, online educational platform (Joint Management (JM)) with exercise programming and optional telerehabilitation with a physiotherapist for patients. Objectives: 1) Determine the effectiveness of PARx​±​JM on patient-reported outcomes, physical activity levels, and performance-based functional outcomes in individuals with mild to moderate hip or knee OA, versus usual care; 2) evaluate engagement and adherence to PARx​+​JM; and 3) explore the feasibility of PARx and PARx​+​JM. NCT04544904. Randomized controlled trial (type 1 hybrid implementation effectiveness). We will recruit 339 (113/group) participants ≥40 years old with mild to moderate hip or knee OA and randomize them into three groups: PARx, PARx​+​JM, or control (usual care). Follow-up appointments will be completed at 2-, 6-, and 12-months. Primary outcome: Knee Injury/Hip Disability and OA Outcome Score. Secondary outcomes: physical activity levels, anthropometric measurements, physical function, and other patient-reported outcomes. We will assess intervention feasibility and hold focus groups with patients and providers to explore perceptions of the interventions. Two novel healthcare interventions will be used to provide physical activity and exercise programming for individuals with mild-moderate knee and hip OA. This study will allow us to determine the effectiveness of these interventions on patient-reported outcomes, physical activity levels, and performance-based functional outcomes.

‘Making Moves’: Protocol for a hybrid effectiveness-implementation pre-post trial of a co-designed online physical activity program for childhood cancer survivors

‘Making Moves’: Protocol for a hybrid effectiveness-implementation pre-post trial of a co-designed online physical activity program for childhood cancer survivors

Effects of neuromuscular training on proprioception and muscular reaction time in older woman: Randomized controlled trial.

Effects of neuromuscular training on proprioception and muscular reaction time in older woman: Randomized controlled trial.

Health perceptions of older individuals on the cognitive benefits of a multicomponent green physical activity program: A qualitative exploration in the Southwest Region of Bahia, Brazil

Health perceptions of older individuals on the cognitive benefits of a multicomponent green physical activity program: A qualitative exploration in the Southwest Region of Bahia, Brazil

Effectiveness of different physical activity programs in improving older adults’ physical capacities: a randomized controlled trial

IntroductionAs people age, maintaining physical fitness becomes essential for preserving independence, preventing falls, and improving overall quality of life. Physical activity (PA) mitigates the physical decline associated with aging, enhancing balance, strength, flexibility, and coordination. Effective exercise programs for older people should address age-related physical challenges while remaining safe and accessible.ObjectiveThis study aims to identify the most effective PA program to enhance the physical capacities of older people. By comparing training modalities such as Pilates, Aqua Aerobic, and Sensorimotor training, the study evaluates their impact on key physical abilities to determine the optimal program for promoting functional independence and reducing injury risk in older people.MethodsThis study examined 153 participants, divided into a Control Group (N = 44), Sensorimotor Group (N = 46), Aqua Aerobic Group (N = 41), and Pilates Group (N = 22). Over a 24-week intervention, physical capacities were assessed using the Rikli and Jones battery for strength and flexibility and the timed-up-and-go test for agility and speed. Data were collected pre- and post-intervention. To analyze the changes, we used Student’s T-test and Cohen’s d for effect size (ES), with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Additionally, ANOVA was applied to examine the main effects of time, group, and their interaction, with Partial Eta Squared used to determine the effect size (ES) in these comparisons.ResultsThe Sensorimotor Group showed significant gains in all tests (p < 0.05), while the Aqua Aerobic Group showed improvements in the Stand and Sit with and without Leaning (p < 0.001), Forearm Flexion (p = 0.005), and Reach Behind your Back (p = 0.002). In contrast, the Control and Pilates Groups did not exhibit significant improvements in any of the assessed variables. The analysis of the moment*group interaction effect revealed significant differences among the groups, except for the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test.ConclusionIn conclusion, sensorimotor and aquatic training significantly improved physical function, especially balance, strength, and mobility, in older people.

A 12-Month Digital Peer-Supported App Intervention to Promote Physical Activity Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults: Follow-Up Study of a Nonrandomized Controlled Trial.

Mobile apps and peer support are known to effectively promote physical activity in older adults, which, in turn, improves physical function. Previously, we investigated the feasibility and impact of using digital peer-supported apps (DPSAs) to increase physical activity among older adults over a 3-month period. However, the long-term feasibility and impact on sustainable behavior change remain unknown. This study aims to evaluate the 12-month feasibility of the DPSA and to obtain preliminary estimates of its effects on physical activity and physical function among older Japanese adults. This nonrandomized controlled trial recruited older adults aged 65 years or older from 2 physical activity programs. Participants chose either the intervention (app program + exercise instruction) group or the control (exercise instruction only) group. Only those participants who had completed the 3-month intervention and wished to continue in the 12-month follow-up intervention study were included. DPSA feasibility was assessed using retention and adherence rates. Physical activity was assessed using accelerometers, capturing daily step count, light-intensity activity, moderate to vigorous intensity activity, and sedentary behavior. Physical function was evaluated using grip strength and the 30-second chair stand test (CS-30). Accelerometer measurements were collected every 3 months over 12 months (5 time points, including baseline), whereas physical function was measured at baseline, 3 months, and 12 months. The follow-up study included 44 of 66 participants from the 3-month intervention study, with 26 participants in the intervention group and 18 participants in the control group. The 12-month retention rate for participants in the DPSA intervention group was 73% (19/26), whereas the retention rate among all 41 participants, including those who chose not to participate in the follow-up study, was 46% (19/41). The adherence rate was 85.9%. The average number of steps per day (95% CI) in the intervention group changed before and after DPSA use (P=.048). We observed an increase of 1736 (β=1736, 95% CI 232-3241) steps per day compared with baseline. No significant change was observed in the control group. There were significant within-group differences in CS-30 scores for both intervention (P<.001) and control (P=.03) groups over the 12-month period. Specifically, there was a significant change in CS-30 scores (95% CI) between the baseline and 12-month assessments for the intervention (β=6.5, 95% CI 3.8-9.1; P<.001) and control (β=3.8, 95% CI 0.6-7.1; P=.02) groups. Participants with long-term DPSA use observed increases in average daily steps and CS-30 scores before and after DPSA use, although only a limited number of older adults had long-term access to the DPSA. Identifying ways to expand long-term DPSA use among older adults is necessary. Additionally, randomized controlled trials should be conducted to determine the long-term effects of DPSAs on physical activity and function in older adults.

Alleviating work stress with physical activity: A comprehensive review.

Work stress presents significant challenges to employee well-being and productivity. Physical activity interventions in the workplace have been associated with occupational stress reduction; however, further investigation with meticulous planning and comprehensive descriptions of the interventions is necessary. This study aimed to synthesize the effects of physical activity interventions on work stress among employees based on studies published from 2019 to 2024. This comprehensive review examines the effects of physical activity interventions on work stress outcomes, synthesizing studies published between 2019 and 2024. The study followed the PRISMA guidelines and was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024611620). Quality assessment was performed using Cochrane's Risk of Bias tools, and meta-analysis was conducted using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software. The review analyzed interventions such as aerobic training, resistance training, holistic movement practices, and sports activities. This study revealed a small negative correlation between physical activity and stress (d = -0.24, 95% CI [-0.83, 0.35]). Substantial heterogeneity (I² = 98%, p < 0.001) indicated variation across populations and intervention types. Despite modest effects, results highlight the potential of tailored, sustainable physical activity programs to improve employee resilience and workplace well-being. This study emphasizes incorporating physical activity into wellness strategies and encourages future research to optimize intervention design and implementation for maximum impact.

Effects of web platform delivery of a physical activity program for breast cancer survivors: a randomized controlled trial.

We previously demonstrated that a 3-month peer-delivered program (Moving Forward Together, MFT) significantly increased breast cancer survivors' moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA). To enhance MFT's scalability and reach, we adapted it to an existing web platform and developed webMFT. Our goal was to test the efficacy of webMFT on survivors' MVPA. In a randomized controlled trial, we trained ten peer coaches from cancer care organizations to deliver webMFT or MVPA Tracking to 61 breast cancer survivors (mean age = 58.10years [SD = 8.55], 1.40years post-diagnosis [SD = 0.50], 80% Stage 0-1 cancer) for 3months. Both groups received a FitBit® tracker and behavioral supports of weekly synchronization reminders, physical activity (PA) tipsheets, and recommended PA goals. In addition, webMFT participants received weekly coaching calls tailored to their FitBit® data shared through the web platform. All participants wore an Actigraph accelerometer for 7days at baseline and at post-intervention and completed quality of life (QOL), mood, fatigue and physical functioning questionnaires. We used mixed effects regression models to examine between-group differences on outcomes. Both groups significantly increased their MVPA from baseline to 12weeks but there were no significant between-group differences in change in MVPA (b = - 22.84, SE = 16.99, p = .18). There were significant between-group effects favoring webMFT in improved QOL at 12weeks (b = 1.56, SE = 0.77, p = .04). Adapting the efficacious MFT intervention for web delivery did not result in significant improvements in MVPA vs. MVPA Tracking. This raises questions as to whether the efforts undertaken to adapt and deliver the program through the web platform were justified as compared to MVPA Tracking with behavioral supports. Promoting PA does not require web delivery of coaching-using physical activity trackers with weekly reminders and resources is also effective. This trial was registered in Clinicaltrials.gov on 6/8/2022 (NCT05409664).

The Impact of Supervised Physical Activity in Urban Green Spaces on Mental Well-Being Among Middle-Aged Adults: A Quasi-Experimental Study

In recent decades, extensive evidence has indicated that green spaces and physical activity (PA) are associated with mental health, while limited research has explored the combined effects of supervised PA in urban green spaces. To address the research gap, this study examines whether supervised PA within green spaces improves mental health among middle-aged adults (45–65 years) through a quasi-experimental longitudinal study developed as part of the “Moving Parks” project in Bologna, Italy. Using the Italian version of the Warwick–Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale (WEMWBS), mental health was measured at pre- and post-assessment. A total of 340 participants (258 intervention, 82 control) were included in the study. The effects of intervention, group assignment, and their interaction on mental health scores were analysed using a two-way repeated measures ANOVA. No significant differences in mental health improvements were observed between the intervention group and control group. The results indicated significant main effects of time on total WEMWBS scores and several subscales such as optimism, usefulness, energy, and cheerfulness, but these changes were not significantly influenced by group assignment. The only significant group-by-time interaction was found in perceived usefulness. These findings do not provide conclusive support for the hypothesised benefits of the supervised PA intervention. Possible explanations include seasonal variation, baseline or ceiling effects, and the potential limitations of the WEMWBS in detecting short-term psychological changes. Future research should consider extending intervention duration, improving group comparability, and employing more sensitive assessment tools to better evaluate the mental health impact of green space–based PA programmes.

Perspectives of Women with Overweight and Obesity on Physical Activity: A Qualitative Study

Aim: The rates of obesity and physical inactivity are relatively high among women in Türkiye, increasing the need for physical activity programs. This study aimed to provide information for physical activity programs by gaining an in-depth understanding of the perspectives on physical activity of women with overweight and obesity. Material and Methods: The research was based on a qualitative case study design and was conducted between June and July 2022 in Antalya, Türkiye. It used the purposive sampling and snowball sampling methods and included 20 women who were overweight or obese. Data were collected face-to-face using the individual in-depth interview method. This study used the qualitative data analysis method, and all data documentation, organization, and theming were performed using the Nvivo-10 software package. Results: The participants’ mean age was 43.30 ± 10.22 years, and their mean body mass index was 35.57 ± 4.63 kg/m². Five major themes emerged: being healthy, types of physical activity, encouragement, unsatisfactory experiences, and preferences to increase physical activity. Conclusion: All participants stated that protection and maintenance of health encouraged them to do physical activities. Most participants preferred walking and exercising at home as physical activity. Pain and tiredness, neglect, cultural aspects, and environmental restrictions were unsatisfactory physical activity experiences. It is believed that providing education on the negative experiences and demands of women with overweight and obesity regarding physical activity in primary health care services and encouraging them to do different types of physical activity is important for public health.

Nonregular Physical Activity and Handgrip Strength as Indicators of Fatigue and Psychological Distress in Cancer Survivors.

Cancer survivors who do not engage in regular physical activity often experience persistent psychological distress and fatigue, which can significantly impact their quality of life. While handgrip strength (HGS) is recognized as an indicator of overall health and physical resilience, the combined role of HGS and physical inactivity in predicting psychological distress and fatigue in this population remains unclear. This study aimed to examine the relationships between self-reported physical inactivity, HGS, and psychological distress, specifically depressive symptoms, anxiety, and cancer-related fatigue (CRF), in physically inactive cancer survivors. This cross-sectional study included 42 physically inactive cancer survivors (mean age = 63.2 years, SD = 8.96) recruited from the Cancer Institute (IRCCS) in Bari, Italy. Physical inactivity was quantified based on self-reported weekly physical activity minutes, with all participants engaging in less than 150 min per week. The participants underwent HGS assessment and completed validated psychological measures, including the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-Y1 and STAI-Y2), and the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS). Bivariate correlations were examined via Spearman's rank correlation coefficients, and multiple linear regression analyses were performed to identify independent predictors of psychological distress and fatigue, adjusting for covariates such as age, sex, cancer type, and time since treatment completion. Both lower HGS and greater physical inactivity were significantly correlated with greater depressive symptoms (HGS: ρ = -0.524, p < 0.001; physical inactivity: ρ = -0.662, p < 0.001), greater fatigue severity (HGS: ρ = -0.599, p < 0.001; physical inactivity: ρ = -0.662, p < 0.001), and increased trait anxiety (HGS: ρ = -0.532, p < 0.001; physical inactivity: ρ = -0.701, p < 0.001). No significant associations were found between physical inactivity or HGS and state anxiety (p > 0.05). Multiple regression analyses confirmed that both HGS and physical inactivity independently predicted depressive symptoms (HGS: β = -0.435, p = 0.009; physical inactivity: β = -0.518, p = 0.002), trait anxiety (HGS: β = -0.313, p = 0.038; physical inactivity: β = -0.549, p < 0.001), and fatigue (HGS: β = -0.324, p = 0.033; physical inactivity: β = -0.565, p < 0.001), even after adjusting for covariates. Low physical activity and reduced muscle strength independently predict psychological distress and fatigue in cancer survivors. These findings highlight the potential exacerbating role of physical inactivity in both physical and psychological vulnerability, underscoring the need for interventions promoting regular exercise. Integrating strength assessments and structured physical activity programs may be key strategies in survivorship care to improve mental well-being and overall quality of life.

Hypertension in children with intellectual disabilities: a population not to be overseen.

Hypertension (HTN) is a significant public health concern affecting individuals across all age groups, including those with and without disabilities. Among children and adolescents, particularly those with intellectual disabilities, the risk of HTN is heightened due to factors such as obesity, low physical activity, and comorbid conditions. Regular blood pressure (BP) monitoring is essential, considering the challenges in measurement accuracy among children with intellectual disabilities. Beyond traditional lifestyle modifications, individualized dietary interventions and structured physical activity programs play a fundamental role in HTN prevention and management. Additionally, optimizing sleep quality and addressing comorbidities are essential for improving long-term health outcomes. The updated recommendations emphasize a broader specialist involvement, including endocrinologists, nephrologists, cardiologists, and rehabilitation specialists, to ensure comprehensive care. The integration of these approaches, along with appropriate pharmacological strategies whenever necessary, is crucial for achieving health benefit. This article provides practical guidance for primary care providers, specialists, and caregivers, advocating for a collaborative, patient-centered approach to reducing cardiovascular risks and enhancing the quality of life for children with intellectual disabilities.

Connection between college students’ sports activities, depression, and anxiety: the mediating role of self-esteem

Background and purposeAs mental health issues receive increasing global attention, particularly the prevalence of depression and anxiety symptoms among college students, exploring effective intervention measures becomes crucial. This study aims to investigate the impact of physical activity on depression and anxiety among college students and to delve into the mediating role of self-esteem in these impacts.MethodsA structured questionnaire was used to survey 326 undergraduates from three universities in Hainan Province. The questionnaire assessed their self-reported responses to physical activity, depression, anxiety, and self-esteem. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) was employed to analyze the data collected in this study.ResultsThe results indicate that physical activity significantly negatively affects students’ depression (β = -0.262, t = 4.268, p < 0.001) and anxiety (β = -0.170, t = 2.849, p < 0.01). Furthermore, self-esteem partially mediates the relationship between physical activity and both depression (β = -0.081, t = 3.158, p < 0.01) and anxiety (β = -0.063, t = 2.806, p < 0.01).DiscussionIn conclusion, the findings provide a theoretical basis for developing physical activity programs aimed at enhancing college students’ mental health, suggesting that future interventions should focus on increasing participation in physical activities and enhancing self-esteem to alleviate depression and anxiety, thus comprehensively improving students’ psychological well-being.

Psychosocial physical activity outcomes of a father-focused health programme for Mexican-heritage families.

Mexican-heritage families on the Texas-Mexico border report less physical activity (PA) and are at greater risk for chronic disease than the US population. According to social cognitive and family systems theories, family-centred PA programmes engaging Mexican-heritage fathers can improve psychosocial outcomes related to PA. The study assesses changes in child's PA self-efficacy, skill competency, father's social support for child PA, and parenting strategies after a culturally tailored, father-focused, and family-centred lifestyle programme (¡Haz Espacio para Papi!; Make Room for Daddy). Using a stepped-wedge cluster randomized design, participating families (n = 42), consisting of children (mean age: 9.8 ± 1.0) and fathers (mean age: 38.9 ± 7.9]), were from four randomized geographic clusters. Child's PA self-efficacy, skill competency, father's social support for child PA, and parenting strategies were evaluated pre- and post-programme. Linear mixed models assessed programme effects on child and father psychosocial outcomes. The programme was associated with a significant increase in father's social support for child PA (β = 0.08; SE = 0.03; P = .01). However, the programme had no statistically significant associations with child self-efficacy (P = .66), skill competency (P = .96), or parenting strategies (P = .08). This culturally tailored programme resulted in significantly increased fathers' social support for child PA. Programmatic components related to child psychosocial outcomes may need to be strengthened to adequately demonstrate effectiveness.

Strategies for recruitment of adolescent girls into physical activity programmes: a systematic review protocol

Background Physical activity is essential for youth physical and mental health, yet just 15% of adolescent girls versus 22% of adolescent boys worldwide meet the World Health Organization guideline of at least an average of 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity per day. As activity patterns established in adolescence often persist into adulthood, there is a looming risk of adverse health outcomes due to insufficient physical activity. A persistent challenge faced by physical activity providers, however, is recruiting adolescent girls into their programmes. This systematic review will quantitatively synthesise existing knowledge surrounding the recruitment of adolescent girls into physical activity interventions and aims to provide evidence-based recommendations for optimal recruitment practices. Methods Five electronic databases will be searched to identify randomised controlled trials of physical activity interventions for adolescent girls worldwide. Hand-searches of reference lists of included randomised controlled trials, relevant systematic reviews, and author publications will also be conducted. Data will be extracted regarding study, participant, and intervention characteristics, pre-determined recruitment goals, recruitment strategies employed, and the number of participants screened, eligible, approached, randomised, and retained. Outcomes will include whether pre-determined recruitment goals were met, recruitment rate, and any adapted or extended recruitment measures required mid-study. Descriptive statistics, including the median recruitment rate for all included studies, will be calculated and stratified by subgroups such as the type or setting of physical activity. Recruitment strategies will be categorised, and the percentage of studies using each category, along with their associated recruitment rates, will be documented. If sufficient studies are found, multi-variable regression will be employed to determine if the use of a specific recruitment strategy increases enrolment. Discussion Application of the findings of this review by physical activity programme providers may enhance their recruitment processes, potentially increasing teenage girls’ physical activity enrolment worldwide. Systematic review registration PROSPERO CRD#42023475858

Physical activity preferences of people transitioning to outpatient mental health care

Abstract: Introduction: Physical activity (PA) has benefits for physical and mental health, yet people with mental disorders are less active than the general population. In Switzerland, inpatient PA programs have low participation rates, and outpatient options are limited. This study explores the PA preferences of those transitioning from inpatient to outpatient mental health care in a Swiss university psychiatric hospital. Method: Cross-sectional survey of 89 patients aged 18 years and older in inpatient or day care treatment: 48.3% female, 49.4% male, 2.3% non-binary, and median age category 35-44 years (28.1%). Patients who attended prescribed group therapy sessions, including Nordic walking, back training, team sports, medical training therapy, relaxation techniques, and movement therapy were recruited by physical therapy staff. Results: Participants favored activities such as swimming, strength training, walking or Nordic walking, and cycling. Most preferred both group and individual activities, moderate-intensity PA, and support from specialized professionals. Conclusion: People with mental disorders have specific preferences for PA that should be addressed with structured outpatient exercise programs with moderate-intensity activities, professional supervision, and personalized support. Improved access to and integration of PA interventions in outpatient settings could enhance overall therapeutic outcomes for people with mental disorders.

Physical Activity and Sport to Fight Social Isolation Among Houseless People in “Northtown” (France)

This article examines the impacts of a physical activity program on individuals in extreme poverty and facing social isolation in a French city we called Northtown. The findings are based on an ethnographic approach conducted between 2022 and 2023: Forty‐three session observations, twelve biographical interviews, and four structured interviews were conducted. The article first identifies the mechanisms leading to social destabilization or breakdown among the participants. Their life trajectories are analyzed to understand the construction of their social isolation, highlighting the impact of life experiences and social conditions on this situation. Due to their difficult pasts, participants are anchored in the present and find bodily engagement in physical activity sessions. These moments provide temporary escape and a form of recognition but the effects are ephemeral. After the sessions, they return to their reality marked by isolation and persistent difficulties. Physical activities offer momentary security, distraction, and relief but they cannot compensate for the lasting impacts of their life experiences as they do not address the underlying issues of their isolation and distress.

A Study on Structured Physical Activity for Enhancing Self-Esteem in Children with Learning Disabilities in the Light of NEP 2020

Abstract The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasizes inclusive education and holistic development, recognizing the vital role of physical activity in fostering psychological well-being among children with special needs. This study investigates the impact of structured physical activity interventions on the self-esteem of children with learning disabilities (CWSN), employing a quantitative quasi-experimental design. A total of 60 participants, aged 12 to 16 years, were selected from special and inclusive schools, with 30 assigned to an experimental group receiving an 8-week structured physical activity program and 30 to a control group with no intervention. The program included motor skill training, team games, and cooperative physical tasks tailored to the needs of children with learning disabilities. Pre- and post-intervention self-esteem levels were measured using a standardized tool (Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale modified for CWSN). Data were analyzed using paired and independent samples t-tests. Results indicated a statistically significant improvement in self-esteem among the experimental group (p &lt; 0.01) compared to the control group, demonstrating the positive effects of physical activity in enhancing self-worth and confidence among CWSN. The findings underscore the need for integrating structured physical activity programs within the school curriculum, as advocated by NEP 2020, to support the psychological and social development of children with learning disabilities. This study contributes to the growing body of literature supporting evidence-based interventions for inclusive education and calls for policy-level support to implement such practices nationwide. Keywords: NEP 2020, CWSN, structured physical activity, self-esteem, learning disabilities, inclusive education

A 24-week physical activity program implemented in long-term care facilities during COVID-19: Effects on functional fitness in older adults over 70

ABSTRACT Healthy aging emphasizes the maintenance of optimal physical functioning. As older adults age, they may experience muscle loss and decline in physical abilities, which can lead to a greater need for long-term care services. This loss of independence may result in reduced opportunities for social engagement, including learning and participation in various programs. Therefore, this study aims to implement a long-term physical activity program and investigate its benefits for older adults in day care facilities. The goal is to provide valuable insights for future program design in similar settings, offering more stable and long-lasting solutions. The study included 57 Taiwanese older adults from day care facilities, comprising 8 males and 49 females, with ages ranging from 72 to 100 years (mean age of 85.6 ± 1.3 years). The participants engaged in a physical activity program twice a week, with each session lasting one hour, over a period of 24 weeks (December, 2021 to June, 2022). Changes in participants’ functional fitness were measured before and after the exercise intervention. The results demonstrated significant improvements in participants’ functional fitness following the intervention, indicating the potential of a 24-week physical activity program for promoting health in older adults. This study employed a progressive and long-term physical activity program, suggesting that care professionals should consider adopting similar approaches to provide stable and extended programs within long-term care facilities. Implementing such programs may enhance the physical functioning of older adults.