Physical Activity Program Research Articles

Motives of Peer Volunteers Aged Over 50in Physical Activity Programs: A Scoping Review.

Peer-volunteering schemes can facilitate health improvement via increasing physical activity levels. Understanding what motivates peer volunteers is valuable for the feasibility of volunteering schemes. This scoping review aims to explore the motivations of peer volunteers aged over 50 who participate in programs that promote physical activity. Four databases were searched in March 2023 with no date restrictions. The inclusion criteria were adults over 50years of age, experience in physical activity peer-volunteering schemes, assessed volunteer motivation, and uses English language. Nine studies were included (252 participants, aged 54-85) Peer-volunteer and volunteering characteristics were extracted from the papers. An inductive thematic analysis approach was taken to analyze the motivation data. The themes were then mapped onto theoretical constructs of motivation. Three themes of motivation emerged that could enable us to better design peer-volunteer recruitment strategies: altruistic (giving back), personal improvement (meeting goals), and past experience (helping others overcome experienced barriers). The review suggested that peer-volunteer motivations fall in line with the mechanisms of motivation suggested by psychological theories such as social cognitive and self-determination theories. To improve peer-volunteer uptake and retention, appropriate theoretical frameworks should be employed to inform the content of future interventions to ensure that volunteers will have their motivations met.

Developing a co-designed, culturally responsive physical activity program for Pasifika communities in Western Sydney, Australia.

Pasifika communities in Western Sydney experience significant health disparities, particularly related to chronic diseases such as cardiovascular conditions and diabetes. Physical activity is known to improve both physical and mental health, yet access to culturally responsive physical activity programs for Pasifika communities is limited. This study leveraged expertise from an Advisory Committee to adopt community-based participatory research (CBPR) through Talanoa to co-design a physical activity program specifically tailored for Pasifika people in Western Sydney. Pasifika mothers were identified as a priority population due to their central role in family health and well-being. The co-design process followed the four stages of Engage, Gather, Understand and Improve, guided by the Fonofale Model of Health to ensure a culturally responsive approach. We report on each stage of the co-design process and the results gathered, highlighting key findings such as the need for culturally safe environments, flexible scheduling, ensuring programs are community-led and addressing key barriers including caregiving responsibilities, sociocultural expectations and health status. The results from this study will guide the implementation of a culturally tailored physical activity program that meets the unique needs and values of the Pasifika community in Western Sydney.

Physical activity-the past, present and potential future: a state-of-the-art review.

This is a state-of-the-art review of historical developments, current approaches and recommended future directions in physical activity (PA) research, practice and policy. Since the early epidemiological studies in the 1950s, PA research has developed from within a biomedical paradigm. There is now a strong evidence base linking PA with positive health outcomes. PA is currently understood as a multi-sector issue, requiring a multi-sector solution (e.g. transport, urban design, sport), resulting in multiple individual and societal benefits (e.g. addresses multiple Sustainable Development Goals), however, there is a disconnect between interventions, policy and practice. This may be due to limited cross-sector collaboration between, and within, the public and private sectors. Furthermore, the mix of policy instruments employed by governments to implement PA policy to date has been dominated by soft (e.g. communication) rather than hard options (e.g. fiscal). To progress in PA promotion, we need to move beyond health outcome and intervention evidence generation (e.g. focus on testing efficacy in highly controlled settings), to more complex, real world, politically informed, multi-sector, scale-up and policies, while concurrently collecting data to evaluate such efforts (e.g. natural experiments and evaluations of the policy process). PA programs may benefit from greater incorporation of public policy considerations, so that proposed interventions and policies are designed with potential political constraints in mind. We conclude by providing a call to action to advance the understanding of the role of politics in PA, in order to develop politically informed action on PA.

Relationship Between Sedentary Lifestyle, Physical Activity and Stress in University Students and Their Life Habits: A Scoping Review with PRISMA Checklist (PRISMA-ScR).

University students are particularly vulnerable because of academic pressure and lifestyle changes. Despite the well-known benefits of physical activity in reducing mental stress and improving physical and mental well-being, the literature lacks effective interventions and standardized protocols for this population. This study aims to investigate the state of the art in literature regarding the correlation between the use of physical activity as a means of prevention and intervention and the effects on university students' stress and mental well-being. A scoping review was conducted using the PRISMA protocol for scoping reviews, targeting university population with specific terms. The review analyzed 61 articles and identified a consistent positive correlation between physical activity and stress reduction. Interventions included yoga, tai chi, aerobic exercise and moderate- or high-intensity exercise. A lack of standardized protocols were also evident. Physical activity is an effective means for managing stress and improving mental well-being among university students. An integrated approach combining different forms of exercise and strategies to regulate emotions could provide very effective effects on the mental well-being of students. Universities should propose physical activity programs in several forms to enable students to choose the most appropriate one and keep them active.

A longitudinal analysis of physical exercise in shaping language learners’ emotional well-being: a comparative analysis between L1 and L2 students

BackgroundStudents’ psychological wellness is one of the key elements that improve their well-being and shape their academic progress in the realm of language learning. Among various strategies, physical exercise emerges as an effective approach, allowing learners to manage their emotions considerably.MethodsEmploying a quasi-experimental research design, this study examines the impact of a three-month physical running exercise intervention on emotional regulation behaviors among L1 (Arabic language) and L2 (English as a foreign language learning) students. Data was collected at three (pre-test, mid-test, and post-test) intervals, focusing cognitive reappraisal (CR) and expressive suppression (ES) the key constructs of emotional regulation.FindingsThe results showed that the emotional regulation abilities of both groups were considerably impacted by the physical running exertion and differed significantly, with students’ CR skills significantly improving and their ES decreasing over time. However, no significant interaction effect between time and (L1 and L2) groups’ CR was observed, suggesting that physical exercise universally benefits cognitive reappraisal regardless of the language learning context. Conversely, a significant interaction effect was observed in students’ ES, with L2 students experiencing more reduction compared to their L1 counterparts, highlighting the unique emotional challenges faced by L2 learners and the effectiveness of physical activity in mitigating these challenges.ConclusionThe results highlight the importance of physical exercise in enhancing emotional regulation abilities among students, particularly in a second language learning context. Given this, regular physical activity programs should be incorporated into educational curricula to support students’ emotional well-being and academic success. It further offers insightful recommendations for teachers, students, administrators, and policymakers to optimize physical exercise integration in higher education.

Obesity and the Importance of Breathing.

Obesity is a complex and non-communicable disease with a pandemic entity. Currently, multiple causes can lead to obesity, and it is not always easy to create a direct relationship between physical inactivity, poor quality of nutrients consumed, and calculation of excess calories. Among the associated comorbidities, obesity creates a dysfunctional environment of respiratory rhythms at the central and peripheral levels, with functional, morphological, and phenotypic alteration of the diaphragm muscle. This pathological adaptation of breathing is one of the most important causes of the dysregulation of the autonomic system, which will negatively affect the progression of comorbidities and chronic non-physiological adaptations in obese persons. Introducing a physical activity program involving diaphragm training could be a very valid strategy to restore the systemic autonomic response, delaying or avoiding the onset of pathologies in excess fat. This brief narrative review focuses on the importance of breathing in obese subjects.

School-Based Physical Activity Program Implementation Is Enhanced With Support From Community-Based Partners.

School-based physical activity (PA) programs are an equitable, evidence-based approach to combat health and PA disparities. This study examined factors associated with implementation of BE Physically Active 2Day (BEPA 2.0), a K-5 school-based PA program, and examined how support from Cooperative Extension via Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-Ed) partners influenced implementation. Teachers in schools receiving BEPA 2.0 trainings were surveyed about program use 3-6 months post-training. Descriptive and chi-square analyses were conducted to evaluate the relationships between implementation factors (e.g., training, support, barriers) and program delivery. Logistic regression was used to summarize the odds of program delivery related to implementation factors. Responses were returned by 355 teachers. The odds of program delivery among trained respondents were 2.64 (1.22, 5.47) times the odds among untrained respondents. Most implementors (72.4%) provided activities 1-2 times/week. More frequent implementation (≥ 3 times/week) [OR = 2.43 (1.27, 4.73)] and fewer barriers were reported among those who received support from SNAP-Ed partners (p = 0.01). SNAP-Ed program partnerships should be considered when implementing school-based strategies to increase PA opportunities for vulnerable youth. High PA program implementation among trained teachers was enhanced with partner support.

The impact of physical activity on mental health

This article critically evaluates the interconnectedness of physical activity and mental health, drawing on a diverse body of evidence from observational studies, controlled trials, and emerging neuroscientific research. We explore how engaging in regular exercise is associated with improved mood regulation, reductions in anxiety and depressive symptoms, and better coping strategies under stress. By examining a range of exercise modalities, intensities, and durations across various age groups and demographic contexts, we shed light on the differential impacts of physical activity on mental well-being. Neuroscientific findings including those from neuroimaging and biomarker analyses offer insights into the biological mechanisms behind these improvements, revealing alterations in neural circuits and neurotransmitter systems that underpin emotional resilience and cognitive functioning. We further consider the psychological and social benefits that accompany regular physical activity, such as enhanced self-esteem, feelings of belonging, and the establishment of positive routines. Finally, we identify gaps in existing research, including the need for more tailored, evidence-based exercise prescriptions and an improved understanding of how to optimize interventions for individuals with specific mental health profiles. Overall, this review underscores the imperative of incorporating strategic physical activity programs into mental health prevention, treatment, and policy initiatives.

Socioeconomic status moderates the effect of physical education on overweight and obesity in children: a quasi-experimental trial.

A school-based physical activity intervention, delivered through a physical education program, effectively reduces overweight and obesity risk in disadvantaged primary school students and may address some of the adverse health-related impacts of living with low socioeconomic status. • School-based physical activity programs offer promising solutions for improving health-related physical activity in children. However, the impact of socioeconomic context on the effectiveness of these programs is unclear. • An intensive school-based physical activity intervention effectively reduces overweight and obesity risk in disadvantaged primary school students and may address some of the adverse health-related impacts of living with low socioeconomic status.

Co-development of a programme to improve physical activity support for women after breast cancer treatment: a pre-protocol for PURE-EX

Background Breast cancer and its treatment can have long-term adverse effects on physical and mental health. Evidence-based guidelines recommend that healthcare professionals (HCPs) advise women with breast cancer to engage in physical activity to improve health outcomes. However, support to be active is not standard care. The PURE-EX (EXpanding into communities to imProve physical activity sUpport foR womEn after breast cancer) programme aims to address this knowledge-practice gap. Aim To co-develop a programme that integrates physical activity referrals into standard care for women after treatment for early-stage and locally-advanced breast cancer. Programme components will include: 1. A referral pathway enabling HCPs to refer women to community-based physical activity programmes after they have completed primary treatment for breast cancer; 2. An online training course to support community providers in adapting their existing physical activity programmes for women who have undergone breast cancer treatment. Work Packages We will co-develop, refine, and evaluate PURE-EX programme components through four work packages (WPs): WP1. Conduct a systematic scoping review to describe the characteristics of community-based physical activity programmes for women with breast cancer reported in the literature. WP2. Undertake qualitative research with: (i) women with breast cancer, (ii) HCPs responsible for their care, and (ii) exercise professionals, to explore barriers and facilitators to incorporating physical activity into breast cancer care from different perspectives. WP3. Hold co-development events to develop and refine components of the PURE-EX programme and gain insights as to how it could be operationalised in practice. WP4. Conduct a feasibility trial in 45 women who have finished primary treatment for breast cancer to assess the feasibility and acceptability of the PURE-EX programme. Discussion The PURE-EX programme will be an evidence-based, theory-informed, and person-centred intervention, with the potential to make physical activity support routinely available for women after breast cancer treatment.

A meta-analysis of the effect of physical activity programs on fundamental movement skills in 3-7-year-old children.

This study aimed to systematically review the effects of different physical activity programs on the fundamental movement skills of 3 - 7-year-old children. For this review, the databases of CNKI, Web of Science, and PubMed were searched to collect relevant literature on the effects of different physical activity program interventions on fundamental movement skills, and a total of 10 articles with 1,121 subjects were included. The Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment Tool was used to assess the quality of the literature, and meta-analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.4 software. Physical activity significantly influenced children's running ability, horizontal jump, dribbling the ball, kicking ability, catching ability, overhand throwing, striking a stationary ball, and dynamic balance. However, the intervention effect was insignificant for the hop and underhand throwing abilities. The intervention effects for running ability, horizontal jump, kicking ability, and catching ability were better at less than 12 weeks than at 12 weeks and above. In addition, an intervention duration of 90 min or more was better than less than 90 min for running ability and horizontal jump. Future research is recommended to focus on the common factors of the intervention effects of physical activity programs to develop more precise and effective intervention practices to further improve children's fundamental movement skill levels.

Investigation of the relationship between mental health and physical activity among university students.

Physical activity refers to all bodily movement performed by an individual from morning to night. Physical activity benefits not only physical health but also mental health. Physical activity benefits university students in many ways. This study aimed to determine the effects of physical activity on university students' mental health. A cross-sectional study design was conducted with two hundred sixty-five university students. Physical activity level was determined by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and mental health among university students was determined using the mental health inventory. Data was collected by online mode. For statistical analysis, the Pearson correlation coefficient test was used, while analysis of variance was used to determine the difference between participants as per their physical activity levels classification. Statistically significant was observed at 0.05 level. The results showed that a statistically positive significant relationship existed between physical activity and mental health (r = 0.343, p = <0.001) and its parameters: anxiety (r = 0.542, p = <0.001), depression (r = 0.691, p = <0.001), positive effects (r = 0.476, p = <0.001), behavioral control (r = 0.174, p = 0.004). While comparing the difference between participants as par physical activity level classification, significant differences existed for anxiety (F = 2.96, p = 0.052), depression (F = 4.23, p = 0.041), positive effects (F = 3.22, p = 0.048), behavioral control (F = 3.14, p = 0.058), and mental health (F = 4.65, p = 0.044). The findings suggest that interventions promoting physical activity can serve as effective strategies for mental health promotion in academic settings. Universities should consider integrating structured physical activity programs into their curricula and campus life to leverage these mental health benefits.

The impact of sports experience on manual dexterity performances in school-age children.

Manual dexterity is the ability to manipulate objects with precision and efficiency, using hands and fingers to achieve a specific objective. This study investigated how the practice of Capoeira, a sport that stimulates coordination skills, affects manual dexterity in children regularly engaged in physical activity or in sedentary children. Eighty-four participants were enrolled in this study, including forty-six males and thirty-eight females (age: 8.52±1.52 years). They were divided into three groups: the Capoeira Group (n=13), the Physical Activity Group (n=30), and the Control Group (n=41). Each participant completed a manual dexterity test (n=5 trials) and the same test in dual-task (n=2 trials) using the Grooved Pegboard Test (GPT). The five trials (GPT1 to GPT5) showed a decrease in the time to complete the test by the participants. The between-group variance in the finger-tapping test (GPT-FTT) and the counting test (GPT-CT) showed significant differences between groups (<0.001). Our results indicate that children who practiced physical activity and Capoeira had higher levels of manual dexterity compared to those of the control group. This study indicates that structured sports, such as Capoeira, can have a beneficial impact on improving manual dexterity. Considering these findings, schools should support the development of fine motor coordination through physical activity programs that emphasize coordination tasks, such as Capoeira.

Association of Body Mass Index and Physical Activity with Psychological Stress among Female Undergraduate Students in Nigeria

Abstract Background: The prevalence of stress among university students has emerged as a significant concern, with notable impacts on their academic performance and overall well-being. Despite the growing body of literature on the association between body mass index (BMI), physical activity (PA), and stress, there is a shortage of research in Nigeria. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the associations of stress with BMI and PA among female students in Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey design was employed, and data were collected from a convenience sample of 301 female undergraduate students at a Nigerian university. The Perceived Stress Scale and International PA Questionnaire—Short Form assessed stress and PA. BMI was calculated from the participant’s weight and height. Results: Participants’ mean BMI was 22.5 ± 3.8 with 68.4% falling within the normal BMI range. A greater percentage reported low levels of PA (60.8%) and moderate stress levels (67.4%). There was no significant relationship between BMI and stress (r = −0.090, P = 0.131). However, a low level of PA was associated with increased stress (r = −0.131, P = 0.027). Conclusion: PA significantly influences stress. Universities should facilitate an exercise-friendly environment and encourage PA programs for female students.

A Systematic Review of the Impact of Public Health Center-Based Physical Activity Programs: Based on the ICF Model

A Systematic Review of the Impact of Public Health Center-Based Physical Activity Programs: Based on the ICF Model

Analysis of the relationship between physical activity and cognitive function among elderly residents in nursing homes

This study aims to analyze the relationship between physical activity and cognitive function in elderly residents at a nursing home in Surabaya. The research employed a cross-sectional design with a sample of 76 respondents selected randomly. Physical activity was measured using the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE), while cognitive function was assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). The results indicated that the majority of respondents had moderate levels of physical activity (55%) and cognitive function (45%). Spearman Rank correlation analysis revealed a significant relationship between physical activity and cognitive function (p = 0.003). This relationship suggests that increased physical activity is associated with improved cognitive function in the elderly. These findings underscore the importance of implementing structured physical activity programs as a non-pharmacological approach to maintaining cognitive health and enhancing the quality of life among the elderly.

Analysis of Nutrition Knowledge After One Year of Intervention in a National Extracurricular Athletics Program: A Cross-Sectional Study with Pair-Matched Controls of Polish Adolescents

Background: Nutrition knowledge may be translated into adequate dietary intake and proper eating habits, so adolescent education programs focusing on improving eating habits and nutrition knowledge are needed. The aim of the cross-sectional study with pair-matched controls was to assess the Consumer Nutrition Knowledge Scale (CoNKS) results and its determinants after one year of intervention in a national extracurricular athletics program within a pair-matched sample of Polish adolescents. Methods: The #goathletics Study evaluated a Polish national extracurricular athletics program, ‘Athletics for all’, being a voluntary and free-of-charge physical activity program organized by the Polish Athletics Association. The study allowed comparing the intervention group of adolescents aged 10–14 years, participating in the program for at least 9 months (a school year) and a pair-matched group not participating in it, while the matching was based on city, gender, and age (each group: n = 506 adolescents, n = 281 females and n = 225 males). The nutrition knowledge was assessed using a Consumer Nutrition Knowledge Scale (CoNKS), and during the analysis, the following factors were taken into account: body weight, height, Body Mass Index (BMI), waist circumference, and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR). Results: The ‘Athletics for all’ program participation influenced not only the total CoNKS score (p &lt; 0.0001) but also the scores in all studied areas—within procedural nutrition knowledge (p = 0.0002), declarative nutrition knowledge on nutrients (p = 0.0001), and declarative nutrition knowledge on calories (p &lt; 0.0001), and program participants revealed a stronger understanding of all the studied areas compared to non-participating individuals. Gender, BMI, and central obesity tendency were not associated with the total CoNKS score (p &gt; 0.05), or any of the studied areas (p &gt; 0.05). The statistically significant differences in the number of correct answers were observed for four items within procedural nutrition knowledge, for four items within declarative nutrition knowledge on nutrients, and for four items within declarative nutrition knowledge on calories (p &lt; 0.05), while for all of them, ‘Athletics for all’ program participants revealed a stronger understanding. Conclusions: One year of intervention in a national extracurricular athletics program significantly influenced the nutrition knowledge of the studied group of adolescents aged 10–14 years. While compared with the pair-matched control group of Polish adolescents, they were characterized by a stronger understanding of all areas of nutrition knowledge.

“We Try and Make it Work”: Physical Education Teacher Education Faculty Perspectives of CSPAP Integration

ABSTRACT Role breadth self-efficacy captures how professionals feel about their ability to undertake expanded occupational roles. For physical education teacher education (PETE) faculty, integrating Comprehensive School Physical Activity Program (CSPAP) learning experiences into PETE is beyond traditional requirements that follow national and/or state accreditation standards. Although some programs integrate CSPAP, little is known about PETE faculty’s perspectives on integrating CSPAP. The study aimed to explore PETE faculty’s experiences learning and teaching about CSPAPs. Individual, semi-structured interviews (M = 39.82 min, r = 21–66 min) with PETE faculty (N = 21) were conducted and analyzed. The four themes were as follows: (a) inspired, (b) encouragement, (c) CSPAP champions, and (d) barriers. PETE faculty have greater self-efficacy to be CSPAP champions when inspired and encouraged by peers in PETE, K-12 teachers, through research, and professional development. To effectively integrate CSPAP training into PETE, experiences within school placements and mentorship from experienced teachers are crucial. Incorporating CSPAP into the teacher certification standards could foster broader adoption.

The ecological system’s influence on physical activities of older adults: comparison between older men and women

BackgroundKorea is expected to become a super-aged society by 2025. Research has shown that regular participation in physical activity has a positive impact on older adults’ health and reduces national health costs.AimsDrawing on Bronfenbrenner’s ecological model, this study examines ecological systems that influence physical activity in older men and women.MethodThe data analysis included information on 537 older adults aged 65 years and older residing in South Korea. The regression analysis identified differences in the ecological systems that influence physical activity in older adults by sex.ResultsBy examining the ecological systems that affect physical activity in older men, this study found that the macrosystem affected the exosystem (p <.001) and microsystem (p <.001), the exosystem affected the mesosystem (p <.01), and the microsystem affected individuals (p <.001). In the case of older women, the macrosystem affected the exosystem (p <.001), microsystem (p <.001), and individuals (p <.01); the exosystem affected the microsystem (p <.01), and the microsystem affected individuals (p <.001).ConclusionsThe microsystem commonly affects the physical activity of older men and women, whereas the macrosystem only affects the physical activity of older women, suggesting that older men may experience limited macrosystem support in fostering their participation in physical activity. To address this disparity, the study highlights the need for targeted policies to enhance macrosystem support for older men, such as developing tailored physical activity programs that promote positive attitudes and accessible opportunities for participation.

'Changing the Focus': Co-Design of a Novel Approach for Engaging People with Dementia in Physical Activity.

Promoting physical activity among people living with dementia is critical to maximise physical, cognitive and social benefits; yet the lack of knowledge, skills and confidence among health professionals, informal care partners and people with dementia deters participation. As the initial phase of a larger feasibility study, co-design was employed to develop a new model of community care, 'Changing the Focus', to facilitate the physical activity participation of older people living with mild dementia. Co-design methodology was utilised with nine stakeholders (with experience in referring to or providing physical activity programs and/or contributing to policy and program planning) over three workshops plus individual interviews with four care partners of people with dementia. Insights were gathered on the physical activity for people with mild dementia, referral pathways were explored and 'personas' were developed and refined. Materials and resources to support exercise providers and referrers to work effectively with people with mild dementia were finalised. Three 'personas' emerged from the co-design sessions, aligned with stages of behaviour change: (1) hesitant to engage; (2) preparing to engage; and (3) actively engaged. Referral pathway discussions identified challenges related to limited resources, limited knowledge, access constraints and individual factors. Opportunities were classified as using champions, streamlining processes, recognising triggers for disengagement, influencing beliefs and attitudes, and means of communication. This study captured the views of physical activity referrers and providers and informal care partners in an inclusive and iterative manner. The use of co-design ensured a robust approach to facilitating participation in formal and informal physical activity options for people living with mild dementia. This study has provided the necessary framework from which to develop and test training and resources for the next stage of intervention (a feasibility trial) to improve physical activity participation for people with dementia.