Physical Activity Program Research Articles

Fit club: Outcomes from 35-minute daily exercise program for autistic adolescents

BackgroundAutistic children and adolescents have academic performance challenges and are often reluctant to participate in physical activities. Executive function (EF) abilities generally remain stable or worsen as autistic children get older and obesity and lack of physical fitness are frequent concerns experienced by these individuals. Finding ways to address these concerns has the potential to improve outcomes in autistic youth. MethodWe conducted a 12-month, repeated-measures study to examine the effectiveness of a mandatory 35-minute daily school physical activity intervention involving low to moderate exertion for autistic adolescents (n = 29). Changes in fitness, EF, social responsiveness, and restrictive and repetitive behaviors were examined. ResultsSignificant improvements were seen in fitness, EF areas (specifically cognitive flexibility and planning/organizing), restrictive and repetitive behaviors and social responsiveness. ConclusionFindings suggest that participation in a mandatory daily 35-minute physical activity program with low to moderate exertion is feasible and may contribute to improved EF, fitness, restricted and repetitive behavior, and social responsiveness in autistic adolescents.

Effects of active breaks on educational achievement in children with and without ADHD: study protocol and rationale of the Break4Brain project

The Break4Brain project aims to elucidate the effects of both acute and chronic physical activity (PA) on educational achievement in children with and without Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This study will be conducted in two phases: a cross-over design followed by a hybrid type 1 implementation-effectiveness trial, which includes both a cluster randomized controlled trial (RCT) and a qualitative study. In phase I, 60 children aged 10–12, with 30 each from ADHD and non-ADHD groups, will participate in a laboratory-based study over 4 days within 1 month. They will participate in three counterbalanced experimental conditions: (i) PA with cognitive engagement, (ii) PA without cognitive engagement, and (iii) a cognitively engaging control. This phase will assess acute changes in brain function, academic performance, working memory, inhibitory control, and sustained attention. Phase II will involve 600 children aged 10–12, randomly assigned to either a video-based PA program or a control group (300 children per group) in an 8-week cluster RCT. This phase will also incorporate a qualitative approach to explore the implementation context through pre- and post-intervention semi-structured interviews with teachers and school staff, and questionnaires for students. The outcomes of interest in this phase will include working memory, cognitive flexibility, selective attention, and academic performance. For the cross-over study, we hypothesize that PA conditions will enhance the studied outcomes compared to the control condition. In the RCT, we anticipate that the 8-week active breaks program will result in significant improvements in the selected outcomes compared to the control group. This study is expected to make pioneering contributions by including novel variables and focusing on the ADHD population. Furthermore, if the cluster RCT proves effective, it could offer a practical and cost-effective resource for integrating active breaks into daily school routines.

The effects of hybrid physical activity program on various motor skills in primary school children

Background and Study Aim. Physical activity in children is fundamental to the development of motor skills. Despite its importance, physical activity programs do not fully address the needs of this age group. This study examined the effects of a hybrid physical activity program on specific motor skills in primary school children. Material and Methods. A quantitative single-group pretest-posttest model was used in this study. The research group included 34 voluntary students, with 19 boys and 15 girls, all in the 3rd and 4th grades of primary school. Participants followed a hybrid physical activity program developed by the researcher. The program lasted for 8 weeks, with sessions conducted 3 days a week face-to-face and 4 days a week at home. Home sessions involved parental support through the Moodle system, using educational videos or visual games. Each session lasted one hour and was supervised by an expert trainer. Motor competence data were collected using the second version of the "Test of Gross Motor Development-2" (TGMD-2), known for its reliability and validity. The data were analyzed using the SPSS 26.0 statistical package, with a significance level set at p<0.05. Results. The study's findings showed significant differences in some sub-skills and total raw scores of the locomotor and object control tests between boys and girls (p < 0.05). Significant differences were also found between the 8- and 9-year-old groups in sub-skills and total raw scores (p < 0.05). Additionally, a significant difference was observed in certain sub-skills and total raw score assessments between the 3rd and 4th grades (p < 0.05). Conclusions. The hybrid physical activity program proved to be an effective approach for enhancing motor skills in primary school children. The findings highlight the importance of tailored physical activity programs that consider individual characteristics such as age, gender, and grade level. Implementing such programs in both school and home settings can promote more comprehensive motor development in children.

Institutional Examples of Applying the SHAPE Appropriate Instructional Practice Guidelines for Higher Education Physical Activity Programs

This educational brief provides examples of applications of the recently updated Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE) Appropriate Instructional Practice Guidelines for Higher Education Physical Activity Programs across several institutions (SHAPE America, 2022). Research has shown that movement and physical activity are essential for managing physical and mental health; therefore, the current low level of physical activity among college students is concerning (American College Health Association, 2024; Rodríguez-Romo et al., 2022). Academic instructional physical activity programs (IPAPs) provide students with quality learning environments that promote and support opportunities for lifelong physical activity and movement. Empowering physical activity instructors with appropriate instructional practices increases the likelihood of positive experiences for both students and instructors. The intent of this brief is to demonstrate how SHAPE IPAP Guidelines are incorporated in universities today. The institutional examples can serve as models to facilitate discussions within other colleges and universities. The information provided will assist program administrators and faculty in developing, better aligning, and supporting their respective IPAP with teaching, administrative, and instructional practices as identified in the SHAPE IPAP Guidelines document.

Effects of a Six-Month Physical Activity Program on Health Risk Factors and Body Composition Among Overweight and Obese Middle-Aged Adults.

Introduction. Physical activity is vital for preventing and managing lifestyle-related diseases, which pose significant health and socio-economic challenges. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a six-month supervised physical activity program on health risk factors and body composition in middle-aged individuals with overweight or obesity. Methods. The study involved 166 men and women aged 30 to 65 years, with a body mass index (BMI) ranging from 26 to 35 and moderate to severe health risks. Participants of the study were engaged in a six-month physical activity training program designed in accordance with World Health Organization guidelines. Comprehensive assessments were performed at baseline and after the intervention, including measurements of various anthropometric and body composition parameters, as well as evaluations of functional performance. Fitness tests were also conducted to assess participants' physical capacity and to monitor improvements throughout the training period. Results. Baseline measures of body mass composition and age demonstrated a strong positive correlation with visceral fat rating (VFR) in both men (r = 0.364, p < 0.001) and women (r = 0.420, p = 0.002). Following the six-month training program, participants exhibited an average improvement of 30% (p < 0.001) in their Cooper endurance test results. The physical activity intervention positively impacted body mass index (BMI) and various body composition metrics, including fat mass, VFR, and muscle mass, across all participants and most subgroups (gender, BMI, and age). In males, training at higher maximum heart rate (HRmax) zones significantly contributed to a reduction in the percentage of fat mass (80-89% HRmax) and an increase in the percentage of muscle mass (70-79% and 80-89% HRmax). Conclusions. The study indicates that a six-month supervised physical activity program significantly improves health risk factors and body composition (visceral fat reduction and improvement in percent of fat and muscle mass) among middle-aged individuals with overweight or obesity. Therefore, we advocate for the integration of structured physical activity interventions into healthcare practices to effectively enhance health outcomes in this population.

Lifestyle factors before and after colorectal cancer treatment and their association with fatigue

Abstract Background As colorectal cancer (CRC) survivorship increases, so does the challenge of managing cancer-related fatigue, a prevalent condition that severely impacts survivors’ ability to work and overall quality of life. This study delves into the relationship between lifestyle behaviors, assessed using the HEALTHY lifestyle score, and its influence on fatigue among CRC patients. Methods Data was derived from MIRANDA, a multicenter cohort study that enrolls adult CRC patients during a 3-week in-patient rehab within a year after primary CRC treatment. Up to date, n = 438 participants provided information on lifestyle factors at the rehabilitation start (baseline) and then every three months for the first year. The predictors were the HEALTHY lifestyle score and its components (diet, alcohol consumption, physical activity, BMI, and smoking status) calculated at three time points: before surgery, after surgery, and 12 months following rehabilitation. The outcome was fatigue, assessed using the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy - Fatigue (FACIT-F-FS) scale. Results Participants with a higher HEALTHY lifestyle score after CRC surgery had statistically significantly lower fatigue levels. The components that contributed most to this finding were smoking and physical activity. Participants who engaged in exercise post-surgery or did not smoke before their cancer diagnosis experienced lower fatigue levels during rehabilitation. Conclusions Lifestyle modifications, such as increasing physical activity and smoking cessation, are crucial in preventing or reducing fatigue among CRC patients. Tailored public health initiatives that advocate for these lifestyle adjustments and their incorporation into CRC rehabilitation protocols could significantly advance survivor care, ultimately leading to better health outcomes. Key messages • The HEALTHY score is associated with fatigue of CRC patients during rehabilitation, highlighting the crucial role of lifestyle changes after CRC treatment. • Smoking cessation and physical activity programs may be the most effective measures for decreasing the fatigue burden of these patients.

Evaluating the feasibility of an Adapted Physical Activity intervention among breast cancer patients

Abstract Adapted physical activity (PA) programs have shown promising results to reduce physical, psychological and social side effects associated with breast cancer (BC), but the extent to which they can be effectively adopted, implemented and maintained is unclear. The aim of this study is to use the RE-AIM (Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation and Maintenance) framework to evaluate RIPOSTE (Reconstruction, Image de soi, Posture, Oncologie, Santé, Thérapie, Escrime), an innovative intervention focused on improving the quality of life (QoL) of BC surgery patients through fencing. A convergent mixed-methods pilot study was conducted to evaluate the RE-AIM dimensions of RIPOSTE. 24 participants who have just undergone surgery for invasive BC were randomly allocated either in the “RIPOSTE” group (starting immediately after their inclusion), or the “Delayed RIPOSTE” group (starting at 3 months following their inclusion). They answered to questionnaires at inclusion and at the end of the program on QoL, shoulder functional capacity, fatigue, anxiety-depression and PA. Interviews were conducted with 10 participants, 3 sports physicians and 1 fencing master. RIPOSTE program was able to reach mainly young and dynamic participants, attracted by the originality of fencing and keen to improve their physical condition. Regarding effectiveness, our results suggest a trend to the improvement of health indicators, even without any significant differences between the two groups. The cooperation, exchanges and cohesion within the group greatly facilitated the adoption of the program, whereas interruptions during vacations were the main barriers. Maintenance analyses showed that most participants continued to practice PA after the program. RIPOSTE is an acceptable and effective program for involving BC survivors in PA, that needs to be tested at larger scale to investigate its effectiveness, but has the potential to be transferred and scaled up worldwide. Key messages • These results would help to enrich the literature on how to best intervene to enhance treatment and recovery among patients and facilitate transfer from a research program to a field daily practice. • By highlighting complexities of RIPOSTE effectiveness and implementation, this study could lead to a more complete program that addresses issues related to improving external and internal validity.

Factors associated with use of active transport in users of HEVS Program of Ministry of Sports

Abstract Background Sedentary behavior and physical inactivity are associated with an increased risk of chronic disease and mortality. Studies have shown the benefits of active transport to reduce NCDs. In Colombia, studies have been developed to determine the factors associated with the use of active transport, in cities such as Bogota but not nationally, therefore, this study seeks to determine the factors associated with the use of active transport in users of the National Program of Habits and Healthy Lifestyle (HEVS) led by the Ministry of Sport of Colombia in partnership with municipal sports and departmental. Methods The research presented a quantitative approach on a retrospective basis. The population consisted of 75,086 users of the HEVS program in 2019, over 18 years old (average = 44.04 and D.E. = 15.75 years old) of which 87.7% were women. For the statistical analysis a forward logistic regression model was carried out, with the dependent variable: active transport use (0 = no active transport use and 1 = active transport use). Results 41.6% of 75086 participants reported using active transport, corresponding to 31,211. Regular users, who attend physical activity programs 3 times a week, report a higher probability of using active transport OR = 1.38 (95% CI 1.31 to 1.45), compared to those who attend less than 3 times a week. Being female represents a greater probability of using active transport compared to men, OR = 1.39 (95% CI 1.32 to 1.47), those who add salt to food are also more likely to use active transport than those who do not add, OR = 2.04 (95% CI 1.92 to 2.26) and in terms of physical activity, those who meet the minimum recommendations in minutes a week use active transport more likely than those who do not comply, OR = 1.49 (95% CI 1.4 to 1.6). Conclusions Using active transport is associated with greater compliance with weekly physical activity recommendations. Women are more likely to use active transport just like people who add salt to food. Key messages • In order to reduce NCDs in the Colombian population, walking or cycling is proposed because it is associated with a greater probability of compliance with weekly physical activity recommendations. • Formulating public policies in Colombia that encourage the use of active transport would contribute to meeting weekly physical activity requirements.

The Impact of a 12-Week Workplace Physical Activity Program on the Quality of Life of Sedentary Workers: A Pilot Study

Office workers frequently display behavioral patterns marked by extended periods of sedentary and seated work. In this context, the implementation of a workplace exercise program has been shown to be effective in mitigating health-related risk factors. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a 12-week workplace exercise program on the quality of life of employees whose primary occupational duties involve prolonged sitting. The final sample comprised 19 participants (6 females and 13 males), aged between 21 and 48 years (M = 32.26; SD = 9.03). Among these participants, 78.9% reported engaging in a hybrid work arrangement, 15.8% followed an on-site work regimen, and 5.3% worked remotely. Furthermore, 84.2% of participants reported sitting for 6 to 8 h per day, while 15.8% reported sitting for between 9 and 12 h daily. The quality of life of participants was assessed using the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form Health Survey. A paired samples t-test was employed to examine differences between dependent variables. The results revealed a statistically significant improvement in general health (p &lt; 0.01), vitality (p &lt; 0.01), social functioning (p &lt; 0.05), and the mental health summary measure (p &lt; 0.04). Promoting physical activity through workplace exercise programs offers substantial benefits for workers’ health and quality of life, contributing to the prevention of occupational diseases.

A Framework for Bariatric Surgery Patient Care: Patient and Professional Perceptions

Abstract Introduction A multidisciplinary health team for perioperative care of the bariatric patient, sustained in a viable framework to support a long-term follow-up service, may decrease rates of complications, help the recognition of the complexity of this chronic disease, and provide a comprehensive bariatric surgery process analysis. This study aimed to analyze patients’ and professionals’ experiences with the perioperative care process and identify their perceptions of the bariatric surgery process to support the long-term management of obesity surgical treatment. Methods This qualitative study was conducted in a bariatric surgery center in south Portugal. Seven health professionals participated in one focus group, and sixteen patients participated in one of the three focus groups. Patients’ focus group script had eleven open main questions with follow-up questions to probe for more information, addressing motivations, experiences with the pre-surgery and post-surgery process, and perceptions of lifestyle changes. Results Participants reported the need for a reference professional in the hospital to contact, the importance of psychological support to help patients deal with the ‘ups and downs’ of post-surgery life, and the financial support for physical activity programs. Conclusions This research helped identify a need for a framework for long-term follow-up and showed priorities to tailor health services for managing bariatric surgery patients. New bariatric surgery programs should incorporate a diverse health team, focusing on patient support in the long-term follow-up. This team should be led by a dedicated case manager and include physical activity specialists. Key messages • The positive effects of bariatric surgery go beyond weight loss, reinforcing the importance of developing a new conceptual framework based on a patient-centered care model. • A case manager specialist on the bariatric surgery process may be the key to improving the long-term benefits of bariatric surgery.

Practical Strategies for Establishing a Physical Activity Program for Older Aboriginal People - Reflections About Decolonising Practice

Practical Strategies for Establishing a Physical Activity Program for Older Aboriginal People - Reflections About Decolonising Practice

5-Years of Wellness: Changes in Wellness Scores in a Conceptual-Based Instructional Physical Activity Program Before, During, and After COVID

Background: With instructional formats changing due to COVID-19 and college student wellness being affected by the pandemic, it is essential to examine the effects of Instructional Physical Activity Programs (IPAP) on college student wellness. These results show that prior to, during, and after COVID, an IPAP program can play a role in helping college students achieve and maintain wellness. Aim: This study reports the impact of an IPAP on college students’ wellness over five years. Methods: Undergraduate college students enrolled in sections of an online wellness course within an IPAP from Fall 2019 through Spring 2024 semesters (n =15,615) were assessed using the Wellness Inventory, which examines 12 dimensions of wellness. Assessments were conducted at the beginning (pre) and end (post) of the semester. Paired sample t-tests were used to assess significance of changes and effect sizes (Cohen’s d). Results: All 12 dimensions of wellness increased from pre- to post-test semester to semester. Results were statistically significant (p &gt; .05), and effect sizes ranged from small (d = .24) to large (d = 1.13). Conclusions: Instructional Physical Activity Programs that include a wellness component can be a useful intervention to help students improve multiple dimensions of wellness.

Experiences of Undergraduate Students Enrolled in a University Instructional Physical Activity Course: Exploring Factors Contributing to Behavior Modification

Background: There is a trend of decreased daily physical activity among college students. Demands of coursework, hectic schedules, and stress often prevent students from engaging in regular exercise, leading to negative impacts on mental and physical well-being. University Instructional Physical Activity Programs have the potential to address this issue by offering courses that can encourage healthier habits and promote wellness. Aim: The purpose of this study was to analyze the experiences of undergraduate students enrolled in a two-credit elective physical activity course. Methods: Participants were 587 undergraduate students enrolled in an online instructional physical activity course. Data collection included a survey consisting of three questions on a five-point Likert scale and one open-ended response regarding their experience in the course. Results: Descriptive survey data indicated positive trends regarding participants’ experience. Based on thematic analysis, qualitative data produced four themes including (1) awareness, (2) accountability, (3) ease and convenience, and (4) behavior change. Conclusions: Participants had an overall positive response to wearing an activity tracker in an online physical activity course and believed the awareness the activity tracker provided changed their daily behaviors, enabled health outcomes, and changed future intentions for physical activity. This study provides insight into the inclusion of technology to facilitate physical activity in college-age students. Aim: The purpose of this study was to analyze the experiences of undergraduate students enrolled in a two-credit elective physical activity course. Methods: Participants were 587 undergraduate students enrolled in an online instructional physical activity course. Data collection included a survey consisting of three questions on a five-point Likert scale and one open-ended response regarding their experience in the course. Results: Descriptive survey data indicated positive trends regarding participants’ experience. Based on thematic analysis, qualitative data produced four themes including (1) awareness, (2) accountability, (3) ease and convenience, and (4) behavior change. Conclusions: Participants had an overall positive response to wearing an activity tracker in an online physical activity course and believed the awareness the activity tracker provided changed their daily behaviors, enabled health outcomes, and changed future intentions for physical activity. This study provides insight into the inclusion of technology to facilitate physical activity in college-age students.

Patient referral pathways to leisure providers: impacts on physical activity and falls risk

Abstract Background Physical activity aids prevention and management of noncommunicable diseases. Yet many UK adults, particularly those with long-term health conditions, do not meet recommended activity levels. In 2021, West Suffolk Foundation Trust commissioned local leisure provider Abbeycroft to offer 24 week tailored physical activity programs as part of respiratory and frailty patient pathways. Objectives Evaluation of activity and outcome data for all 1670 individuals referred between January - December 2023 to determine future commissioning decisions. Results 256 participants had completed a 24 week pathway by the time of analysis. Compared to baseline, they demonstrated statistically significant (p &amp;lt; 0.05) self-reported improvements on the Short Warwick Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale (median 25 to 27) amongst 68.9% of participants; and on the self-reported International Physical Activity Questionnaire 62.1% reduced time spent sitting (average 436 to 300 minutes/ week), 75% increased metabolically active minutes (average 955 to 2632 minutes/week) and the proportion of participants with a low (inactive) score decreased by 61%. Of 40 frailty patients, 87.5% lowered their self-reported Short Falls Efficacy Scale Score (14.6 to 10.4) and observed Timed Get up and Go (13.55 to 9.53 seconds), indicative of moving from a higher risk to lower falls risk (p &amp;lt; 0.05). 24 week retention exceeded 80% for all ages except 16-20 years. 17.8% of participants were &amp;gt;75 years. Lessons Both pathways have been recommissioned and new tailored pathways for Parkinson’s disease, COPD and cancer are planned. This partnership working is a sustainable, integrated way to embed prevention in the community but needs time to build relationships and streamline data sharing. Key messages • Hospital and community referral pathways to leisure providers significantly improve patient well-being, physical activity and falls risk. • These pathways are affordable, adaptable across conditions and show high retention.

Editorial: The Imperative of Instructional Physical Activity Programs (IPAP) in Higher Education

No abstract available.

College/University Instructional Physical Activity Program Support: History, Advocacy and Wellbeing Promotion Enhancement Through Inaugural National Summit

College/University Instructional Physical Activity Programs (IPAP) have a long history in higher education and can effectively promote wellbeing among a large number of students. Despite IPAP benefits, prevalence has declined over the last few decades. Quality assurance, support, advocacy, innovation, and assessment are needed to strengthen IPAP. However, organizational support and resources for IPAP are lacking; thus, an inaugural National IPAP Summit was hosted in the Fall of 2023 to bring together IPAP professionals. Education, networking, support, resources, and innovative ideas were offered at the summit. Participants had unanimous positive feedback and support of future endeavors for IPAP professionals. Professional organization endorsement is needed to continue to offer opportunities, education, and support for IPAP professionals to maximize the wellbeing promotion potential and sustainability of IPAP.

Association between fitness levels and physical activity in apparently healthy Colombian men

Abstract Physical condition (PC) such as strength and endurance favor functional independence and disease prevention (Melo, 2014). Objective: To characterize the levels of Physical Activity (PA) and CP in apparently healthy men who practice PA in different settings in Bogotá-Colombia. This study is observational cross-sectional, 485 Men (M) participated, mean age 42±17.8 years. To measure the levels PA the IPAQ (International Physical Activity Questionnaires) was applied. The Confidence Interval (CI) and Standard Error (SE) were taken into account. For PA levels, data were analyzed with Rstudio v2022.12.0, with empirical distribution tests, Kolmogorov-Smirnov normality and independence with Chi-Square (χ²), in addition, mean (X¯), percentage (%) and standard deviation (±). 90.6% of the H met the overall PA recommendations (Leisure Time+Active Transportation) with 95% CI (88.0-93.0) and SE (0.012). The PC variables such as; Body Mass Index (BMI), Body Adiposity Index (BAI), Abdominal Circumference (AC), Grip Strength (GS) and Maximal Oxygen Consumption (Vo2max). The results showed that 35.6% (26.9±1.48) of H were Overweight (Ow) and 10.6% (32.7±2.39) were Obese (Ob), 39.7% (98.4±6.8) with Cardiovascular Risk (Rcv) by AC and 24.3% (29.7±3.45) with risk by BAI. As for GS 41.5% (27.1±6.39) is weak and 32.3% (33.3±6.3) is low Vo2max. According to independence tests with χ² there is association between the G and BMI (χ²=1452.1, df = 1427, p-value=0. 315), G and AC (χ²=394.9, df = 382, p-value=0. 313), G and Vo2max (χ²=155.5, df = 6, p-value&amp;lt;2.2e-16), G and BAI (χ²=2970.3, df = 1502, p-value&amp;lt;2.2e-16), G and GS (χ²=6015.5, df = 1502, p-value&amp;lt;2.2e-16). This project was approved by the bioethics committee. Conclusions 149 men corresponding to 30.7% of the sample present an increased possibility of Rcv, despite compliance with global PA recommendations. It is recommended that PA programs reinforce the improvement and promotion of PC to prevent possible Rcv. Key messages • The capacities that define physical fitness (FC) such as strength and endurance favor functional independence and disease prevention (Melo, 2014). • Apparently healthy men in Colombia present a higher possibility of Cardiovascular Risk due to low levels of physical fitness, despite compliance with global BP recommendations.

Using sport to promote the well-being among Latinx immigrants in the United States

Drawing upon the theoretical frameworks of Latino Critical Race Theory (LatCrit) and Sport for Development and Peace Theory, this study seeks to examine the potential of sport participation, physical activity, and community programs as mechanisms for addressing the challenges confronted by Latinx immigrants in the United States. The research is anchored by two primary questions: What social, legal, and economic challenges are encountered by Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients, undocumented individuals, and the broader Latinx community in the United States, and how might involvement in sports, physical activity, and community events help mitigate these challenges. To investigate these questions, an ethnographic methodology was adopted, with data collected over a 13-week period in a predominantly Latinx community in Houston, Texas. The research findings underscore the resilience demonstrated by these individuals in response to the complex challenges within US society and highlight the crucial role of community-oriented sports and cultural programs in fostering inclusivity. The authors provide a comprehensive analysis of the findings and offer recommendations for future practical initiatives centered on community-oriented approaches.

Enhancing chronic disease management through physical activity and pedometry-based health monitoring.

Physical activity (PA) is a vital component in the management of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular, metabolic, and musculoskeletal conditions. In rheumatic diseases (RDs) such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and osteoarthritis (OA), PA has been shown to alleviate symptoms, enhance functional capacity, and improve quality of life. Given these advantages, wearable trackers and smartphone apps have revolutionized PA monitoring, offering quantitative reports of step counts, sedentary behavior, intensity, and energy expenditure. Pedometry-based health monitoring aids in evaluating patients' adherence to exercise regimens, tracking disease progression, and customizing interventions to meet individual needs. Patients with RDs often encounter barriers to maintaining regular PA, including joint pain, fatigue, and comorbidities, which complicate adherence and elevate the risk of adverse events. This overview delves into the dual role of PA in fostering health and managing disease in RD patients. Despite enormous benefits, it is essential to recognize limitations and risks of PA, particularly for individuals with high disease burden and multiple comorbidities. The findings emphasize the importance of integrating tailored PA programs within a multidisciplinary care framework to optimize patient outcomes.

Living with COPD and its psychological effects on participating in community-based physical activity in Brazil: a qualitative study. Findings from the Breathe Well group

Physical activity (PA) improves dyspnoea, psychological wellbeing and quality of life (QoL) for people with COPD reducing their risk of exacerbation. However, engagement in PA is low especially amongst those with anxiety and depression, and PA programmes are limited in countries with limited resources such as Brazil. We explored perceptions of 21 people with COPD about the impact of their disease on taking part in community-based PA programmes in Sao Paulo, Brazil through semi-structured telephone interviews from October 2020 to April 2021. Discussions were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analysed using the Framework method. Five themes were identified: Knowledge about COPD and its management; Self-perception of life with COPD; Knowledge and experiences of depression and anxiety; Opinions on PA and repercussions of COVID-19. PA was considered to be important in bringing physical and mental health benefits but there were barriers in accessibility of formal PR programmes and therefore local community PA programmes were considered to be important. People with mental health conditions tended to view PA more negatively. COVID-19 had reduced PA opportunities, access to COPD treatment and social interaction, and was associated with more exacerbations and emotional suffering. In general, this study showed an urgent need to improve knowledge about COPD and its risk factors and management among both patients, the public and primary healthcare professionals. We provide important content for the formulation of public policies for the implementation of specific activity programmes for people with COPD in community spaces using local resources and intersectoral partnerships.