Knowledge of physical activity recommendations in adults employed in England: associations with individual and workplace-related predictors

Fitness promotion in college: the relationships among students' perceived physical literacy, knowledge, and physical fitness

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships among perceived physical literacy (PPL), knowledge of physical activity and fitness (PAF knowledge), and physical fitness.

Methods

Undergraduates (N = 968, female = 414; Mage = 18.64) from a public university in central China completed a simplified Chinese version of the PPL instrument, an online test for PAF knowledge, and seven health-related physical fitness tests. The PPL includes three dimensions: (a) confidence and physical competence, (b) motivation, and (c) interaction with the environment. The fitness tests measured lung capacity, body mass index (BMI), and performances in 800 (female)/1000 (male) meters run, 50 meters dash (50 M), sit-up (female) / pull-up (male), standing long jump (SLJ), and sit-and-reach.

Results

PPL and its dimensions significantly predicted six fitness test performances both in male (β: -0.42 - 0.37; p < 0.01-0.05; R2: 0.01-0.13) and female (β: -0.59 - 0.49; p < 0.01-0.05; R2: 0.03-0.13) students. PAF knowledge (β: -0.17 - 0.18; p < 0.01-0.05; R2: 0.01-0.05) significantly predicted BMI (males) and performances in 50 M (females) and SLJ (females) tests.

Conclusion

To support college students' fitness development and maintenance, tailored physical activity and fitness promotion programs are needed to strengthen students' PPL and PAF knowledge.

Prospective Teachers' Knowledge of Physical Activity in Children and Adolescents

Over the past few years, organizations around the world have tried to reach different populations with recommendations about physical activity (PA), due to this subject playing an important role in the phases of intention development and in preparation for it. Thus, the knowledge of future educators in the fields of health and PA is of vital importance when improving the levels of the latter in students. The objective of this research is to determine what knowledge future teachers have about health and PA, examining possible disparities according to the gender, age, and level of physical exercise of the participants. In addition, the psychometric properties of the instrument used were explored. A total of 321 Colombian university students from the Faculty of Education between the ages of sixteen and thirty-five participated in this study, providing sociodemographic information by filling out the CUAFYS-A questionnaire. Significant differences were found in the scale items according to sex and self-perception of being physically active. Also, the findings revealed a single-factor structure with nine items that had satisfactory reliability (α = 0.71; CR = 0.72) and excellent goodness-of-fit indices (RMSEA = 0.055 (90% CI (0.3, 0.8), RMSR = 0.02, CFI = 0.935, NNFI = 0.912, CMIN/DF = 1.97). Therefore, strategies and campaigns to promote PA knowledge in prospective teachers should be tailored according to gender and PA levels. Similarly, the CUAFYS-A questionnaire can be considered a valid and reliable instrument to identify the PA knowledge of future educators.

Physical activity assessment with wearable devices in rheumatic diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

In the management of rheumatic musculoskeletal disorders (RMDs), regular physical activity (PA) is an important recognized non-pharmacological intervention. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to evaluate how the use of wearable devices (WDs) impacts physical activity in patients with noninflammatory and inflammatory rheumatic diseases.

METHODS

A comprehensive search of articles was performed in PubMed, Embase, CINAHL and Scopus. A random-effect meta-analysis was carried out on the number of steps and moderate-vigorous physical activity (MVPA). Univariable meta-regression models were computed to assess the possibility that the study characteristics may act as modifiers on the final meta-analysis estimate.

RESULTS

In the analysis, 51 articles were included, with a total of 7488 participants. Twenty-two studies considered MVPA outcome alone, 16 studies considered the number of steps alone, and 13 studies reported information on both outcomes. The recommended PA threshold was reached for MVPA (36.35, 95% CI 29.39, 43.31) but not for daily steps (-1092.60, -1640.42 to -544.77). Studies on patients with fibromyalgia report a higher number (6290, 5198.65-7381.62) of daily steps compared with other RMDs. Patients affected by chronic inflammatory arthropathies seemed to fare better in terms of daily steps than the other categories. Patients of younger age reported a higher overall level of PA than elderly individuals for both the number of steps and MVPA.

CONCLUSION

Physical activity can be lower than the recommended threshold in patients with RMDs when objectively measured using WD. WDs could be a useful and affordable instrument for daily monitoring physical activity in RMDs and may support an increase in activity levels.

PROSPERO TRIAL REGISTRATION

CRD42021227681, https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=227681.

Use of the behaviour change wheel to improve everyday person-centred conversations on physical activity across healthcare

Background

An implementation gap exists between the evidence supporting physical activity in the prevention and management of long-term medical conditions and clinical practice. Person-centred conversations, i.e. focussing on the values, preferences and aspirations of each individual, are required from healthcare professionals. However, many currently lack the capability, opportunity, and motivation to have these conversations. This study uses the Behaviour Change Wheel (BCW) to inform the development of practical and educational resources to help bridge this gap.

Methods

The BCW provides a theoretical approach to enable the systematic development of behaviour change interventions. Authors followed the described eight-step process, considered results from a scoping review, consulted clinical working groups, tested and developed ideas across clinical pathways, and agreed on solutions to each stage by consensus.

Results

The behavioural diagnosis identified healthcare professionals’ initiation of person-centred conversations on physical activity at all appropriate opportunities in routine medical care as a suitable primary target for interventions. Six intervention functions and five policy categories met the APEASE criteria. We mapped 17 Behavioural Change Techniques onto BCW intervention functions to define intervention strategies.

Conclusions

This study uses the BCW to outline a coherent approach for intervention development to improve healthcare professionals’ frequency and quality of conversations on physical activity across clinical practice. Time-sensitive and role-specific resources might help healthcare professionals understand the focus of their intervention. Educational resources aimed at healthcare professionals and patients could have mutual benefit, should fit into existing care pathways and support professional development. A trusted information source with single-point access via the internet is likely to improve accessibility. Future evaluation of resources built and coded using this framework is required to establish the effectiveness of this approach and help improve understanding of what works to change conversations around physical activity in clinical practice.

Recommending Physical Activity to Your Aging Patients? What Clinicians Need to Know to Increase Adherence From the Older Adult Perspective

A wealth of scientific evidence supports that being physically active may prevent or delay the onset of cognitive impairment and dementia. However, a critical barrier is that while most clinicians recommend physical activity (PA) and older adults recognize its health benefits, most older adults fail to regularly practice PA. Thus, it is necessary to explore and disseminate knowledge on how to help clinicians truly partner with people and help them to change their behavior and become more active. Clinical and scientific efforts are underway to establish dose-specific PA recommendations for cognitive brain health. However, an important knowledge gap is how to develop effective strategies to increase PA adherence in aging. To better understand the perspective of older adults, we undertook a mixed-method study on sixty-five sedentary older adults at risk for cognitive decline. Participants answered a questionnaire battery related to PA engagement, and a subcohort participated in a remote focus group. Our findings revealed four main themes: First, age and aging are determinants in PA practice. Second, maintaining both an active mind and autonomy are priorities, but planned PA is not usually related as part of being “active.” Third, motivational challenges in PA engagement were noted. And fourth, they emphasized a call for tailored recommendations. Therefore, we present a multidimensional model of PA adherence to maximize brain health in older adults and suggest a tool kit and key questions to effectively screen sedentary aging adults and translate current guidelines into the needs of the individual by using behavior change strategies.

What do healthcare professionals want from a resource to support person-centred conversations on physical activity? A mixed-methods, user-centric approach to developing educational resources

OBJECTIVES

Healthcare is a fundamental action area in population efforts to address the global disease burden from physical inactivity. However, healthcare professionals lack the knowledge, skills and confidence to have regular conversations about physical activity. This study aimed to: (1) understand the requirements of healthcare professionals and patients from a resource to support routine physical activity conversations in clinical consultations and (2) develop such a resource.

METHODS

This study used codesign principles across two phases, actively involving relevant stakeholders in an iterative development process. The preparatory phase included a scoping literature review and workshops with multidisciplinary healthcare professionals and patients. The Delphi phase included the development of a draft resource, a three-stage modified online Delphi study and an external review.

RESULTS

The scoping review highlighted the importance of addressing time restrictions, a behaviour change skill deficit, the need for resources to fit into existing systems and meeting patient expectations. Consultation included 69 participants across two clinical workshops. They recommended using the internet, valued guidance on all aspects of physical activity conversations and were concerned about how to use a person-centred approach. The Delphi phase, including 15 expert participants, met agreement criteria in two stages to develop the resource.

CONCLUSION

This mixed-methods study delivered an online resource that was codesigned with and based on the requirements of healthcare professionals and patients. The resource presents condition-specific '1-minute', '5-minute' and 'more minute' person-centred and evidence-based conversation templates on physical activity in an accessible and usable format to meet the needs of real-life clinical practice.

Sport and physical activity participation in the workplace: the role of employees' self-perception

Purpose

Despite preventive efforts from some companies to offer some sport and physical activity (SPA) to their employees, French participation rates remain very low, which limit impacts in terms of health and economic benefits. The aim of this study was to better understand the factors influencing SPA participation in the workplace.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional study was conducted based on an electronic questionnaire survey disseminated to 24 companies based in France that offered SPA to their employees. An independent sample t-test was conducted to explore the differences between the most common facilitating and constraining factors, in relation to “being a sporty person” self-perception, leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) level and demographic information. Predictors of SPA in the workplace were determined using a binomial logistic regression.

Findings

A total of 1,318 employees completed the survey, of which 60% were women, mostly highly educated and white collar. “Being a sporty person,” self-perception has been a predictor of SPA participation in the workplace.

Practical implications

More multicomponent work-based interventions, including incidental physical activity, might be necessary to increase participation and overcome time constraint.

Originality/value

Although SPA participation in the workplace is considered to promote numerous positive organizational and individual consequences, this is the first study to assess the associations between facilitating and constraining factors of SPA participation in the workplace setting and physical self-perception.

Feasibility and Preliminary Efficacy of a Multimodal Approach to Increase Physical Activity in Older Adults With Memory Complaints: The Education for Action Study

In this randomized controlled pilot trial, the authors explored the feasibility, technology compliance, and preliminary efficacy of the Education for Action (EDU-ACT), a multimodal intervention combining evidence-based strategies of physical activity (PA) education and coaching in PA levels over 4 weeks between EDU-ACT and control groups. The authors also assessed pre-post changes in neurocognitive function, functional mobility and dual-task performance, sleep and quality of life. Thirty-two sedentary older adults with memory complaints (age = 66 ± 5.3) completed the study (EDU-ACT = 18 and control = 14). The EDU-ACT adherence rate was 95%, and compliance of daily PA reporting was, on average, 22.7 days (94.6%). The EDU-ACT group demonstrated a significantly greater number of steps, processing speed, and dual-task performance when compared with controls (p < .05). In this study, a multimodal, evidence-based, low-cost intervention was feasible, well-accepted, with high adherence and compliance rates, and effective at promoting clinically meaningful increases in PA, for at least 1 month postintervention, in older adults with memory complaints.

"It's Just Not Something We Do at School". Adolescent Boys' Understanding, Perceptions, and Experiences of Muscular Fitness Activity

BACKGROUND

English youth typically do not sufficiently engage in the types and intensities of physical activity that develop muscular fitness. The aim of this study was to use a combination of qualitative techniques to explore adolescent boys' understanding, perceptions, and experiences of physical activity and the role muscular fitness plays within boys' physically active lifestyles.

METHODS

Focus group interviews with a write, draw, show, and tell activity were conducted with 32 adolescent boys aged 14-16 years from 3 secondary schools. Three separate sources of data (frequency counts, verbatim transcripts, and visual data) were generated and were pooled together and triangulated. Data were analysed deductively, first using the Youth Physical Activity Promotion model as a thematic framework, and then inductively.

RESULTS

Physical activity was frequently associated with organised sport, and most boys were unaware of current UK physical activity guidelines. Co-participation was frequently reported as a reinforcing factor to physical activity.

CONCLUSIONS

There was a perceived lack of opportunity to participate in muscular fitness activities, particularly in school, and knowledge of how to conduct muscular fitness activities was limited. The contribution of physical education was highlighted as being key to facilitating exposure to muscular fitness activities.

Physical Activity, Sedentary Behavior, Anxiety, and Pain Among Musicians in the United Kingdom

Context and Aims

Although some exercise-based interventions have been associated with lower levels of pain and performance-related musculoskeletal disorders (PRMDs) among musicians, the evidence is still mixed. Furthermore, little is known about musicians’ general engagement in physical activity (PA), their knowledge of PA guidelines, or the relevant training they receive on pain prevention and the sources of such training. Similarly, little is known about the relationship between PA and PRMDs and other risk factors for PRMDs.

Methods

Following a cross-sectional correlational study design, both standardized and ad hoc measurements were used to investigate self-reported PA [International Physical Activity Questionnaire – Short Form (IPAQ-SF)], knowledge of PA guidelines, and barriers to engaging in PA [Centers for Disease Control (CDC); Determinants of Physical Activity Questionnaire (DPAQ)]; sedentary behavior [Sedentary Behavior Questionnaire (SBQ)]; pain [36-Item Short Form Survey Instrument (SF-36)] and PRMDs (frequency and severity); reported physical exertion (RPE); anxiety [Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS)]; practice behaviors (e.g., practice time; taking breaks frequency; warming up); and relevant training among conservatoire students in the United Kingdom. The entire set of questionnaires was administered both online and via hard copies between June 2017 and April 2018.

Results

Demographic information was obtained from 111 respondents, mostly undergraduate students (UGs) from seven conservatoires. They reported high levels of engagement in PA, despite poor knowledge of PA guidelines. Teachers were the most frequently mentioned source of pain prevention information (by 43% of respondents), and 62% agreed that they had received advice on why they should engage in cardio PA. Sedentary behavior was comparable to normative data. Levels of bodily pain and PRMDs were low, but 43% showed “abnormal” clinical anxiety and found playing their instruments “somewhat hard” (RPE) on average. Bodily pain interfering with practice and performance was positively correlated with frequency and severity of PRMDs, anxiety, and RPE. Frequency and severity of PRMDs were also associated with sedentary behavior at the weekend. Anxiety was associated with RPE. No association was found between PA and PRMDs.

Conclusion

The relationship between PA and PRMDs and pain remains unclear and needs further investigation. While health education needs to be improved, other pathways may need to be taken. Given the high levels of anxiety, the ideology of Western classical music itself may need to be challenged.

Examining the Relationship between Cellphone Use Behavior, Perceived Exercise Benefit and Physical Exercise Level Among University Students in Taiwan

This study investigated how perceived exercise benefit affects the relationship between cellphone usage and physical activity level. This cross-sectional study performed a survey of Taiwanese university students selected using cluster sampling. A total of 975 students were recruited (male = 367, female = 608, average age = 20.10 ± 1.42). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and hierarchical regression. The results show that cellphone usage was negatively correlated with physical activity level, whereas perceived exercise benefit was negatively correlated with cellphone usage and positively correlated with physical activity level. In hierarchical regression, the main effects of cellphone usage and perceived exercise benefit explained 22% of the variance in physical activity level. After controlling for the main effect, the interaction term accounted for an additional 1% of the variance. Cellphone usage and perceived exercise benefit thus had significant power to explain physical activity level. The results of this study reveal a novel phenomenon—that students who perceived the benefits of exercise to be greater are more physically active.

Physical fitness cognition, assessment, and promotion: A cross-sectional study in Taiwan

Introduction

Many health organizations have promoted the importance of the health-related benefits of physical fitness and physical activity. Studies have evaluated effective public health practice aiming to understand the cognition of physical activity among youths and adolescents. However, studies investigating the level of cognition and knowledge of physical fitness among Asian adults are lacking.

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the self-awareness level of physical fitness and exercise prescription and the demand for physical fitness assessment among Taiwanese adults.

Methods

In January–July 2019, a cross-sectional anonymous survey was conducted using Research Electronic Data Capture to gather data on demographic data, cognition investigation of physical fitness and exercise prescription, cognitive test of physical fitness and exercise prescription, and demand for physical fitness assessment.

Results

The questionnaire was answered by 200 respondents. The rating for cognition investigation of physical fitness was 2.63–3.13 (unclear to mostly clear) and for exercise prescription was 2.05–2.76 (unclear) (rated on a 5-point Likert scale). Results show that lack of awareness was highest for health-related physical fitness, exercise prescription, and exercise progress planning. 98% of subjects did not know the latest recommended guidelines for physical activity, despite most agreeing that physical fitness and exercise are good for health. Most subjects (72%) indicated a willingness to accept self-pay service for physical fitness assessments.

Conclusions

This is the first study to report on the demand for cognition, assessment, and promotion of physical fitness among Taiwanese adults. The study shows that the subjects widely lack knowledge in the cognition of physical fitness and exercise prescription. Furthermore, a self-pay service for the physical fitness assessment and individualized exercise prescription were acceptable to most subjects, especially those undergoing regular health examinations. The findings are encouraging and will aid support for health organizations and professionals in the development and management of promotion strategies on health-related physical fitness in preventive medicine and health promotion.

Guidelines for Physical Activity-A Cross-Sectional Study to Assess Their Application in the General Population. Have We Achieved Our Goal?

National and international healthcare organizations propose guidelines for physical activity worldwide, defining its characteristics. These guidelines' practical applications are difficult to estimate, since they are not fully followed. The aim of the present cross-sectional observational study was to assess awareness about guidelines for physical activity and to evaluate their practical applications in a sample of the Italian population. In total, 310 participants completed an online survey (mean age 29.10 ± 4.44), assessing the habits, beliefs and health effects of physical activity. In total, 39.35% of respondents were inactive. In total, 6.91% of active respondents did not perform a warm-up phase at the beginning of each training session and 77.14% did not check their own heart rate during the training session. Approximately half of respondents reported erroneous beliefs about the type, frequency and volume of physical activity, compared to data proposed by the guidelines. The preventive effect of physical activity was clearly perceived for cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, metabolic syndrome and depression. Several subjects misinterpreted the preventive role of physical activity in colon and breast cancers, and in femur and vertebral fractures. Habits and beliefs about physical activity in the general population are far from the guidelines and recommendations. Therefore, it is necessary to strengthen the conscious practice of physical activity further.

Enhancing physical activity knowledge exchange strategies for Canadian long-haul truck drivers

Purpose

Canadian long-haul truck drivers lead sedentary lives, but are receptive to receiving physical activity information to address health risks. This study examined how Canadian long-haul truck drivers would like to receive physical activity information in order to improve their overall health. The purpose of this study was twofold: 1) explore barriers Canadian long-haul truck drivers have to receiving and using physical activity information and 2) understand how physical activity information should be structured and delivered to these drivers to overcome these barriers.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 Canadian long-haul truck drivers. Drivers had, on average, 14.3 years of professional long-haul driving experience.

Findings

Few drivers had received any physical activity information. Drivers discussed a culture where they perceived both employers and drivers to be lacking awareness of the importance of physical activity and its impact on health. Drivers explained they were too busy, stressed or tired to be active or to learn about physical activity. Information received by some drivers on this topic was too general to be helpful in changing physical activity behaviours. Drivers mentioned that personalized and accessible physical activity information should be provided to them through multiple methods by their employers, as an aspect of occupational health and safety.

Practical implications

Future physical activity information strategies should use both passive and interactive mediums to promote physical activity to Canadian long-haul truck drivers.

Originality/value

This is the first study to assess how Canadian long-haul truck drivers would like to receive trustworthy information that can lead to healthful improvements in physical activity behaviour.

The Relationship between Self-Reported Exposure to Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Promotions and Intake: Cross-Sectional Analysis of the 2017 International Food Policy Study

Sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption is independently associated with several non-communicable diseases, so policymakers are increasingly implementing measures, such as marketing regulation, to reduce intake. To help understand how such measures work, this study examined the association between SSB consumption and self-reported exposure to SSB promotions, both overall and by type of promotion, and whether these relationships vary between the UK, USA, Canada, Mexico, and Australia. Cross-sectional analysis of the online 2017 International Food Policy Study was performed (n = 15,515). Participants were grouped into 5265 (34%) non-, 5117 (33%) low-, and 5133 (33%) high-SSB consumers. Multinomial logistic regression models examined whether SSB consumption varied by exposure to total SSB promotion and by type: traditional, digital, recreational environment, and functional environment. Multiplicative interactions were included to investigate international variations. An additional unit of total self-reported SSB promotion exposure increased the likelihood of participants being low SSB consumers (relative risk ratio (RRR) = 1.08, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.06–1.10) and high SSB consumers (RRR = 1.13, 95% CI = 1.11–1.16). Only exposure to traditional and digital promotion increased the likelihood of participants being SSB consumers, though this may be explained by degree of exposure, which was not measured in this study. Some evidence illustrated international variation in these relationships.

Awareness and Knowledge of Physical Activity Recommendations in Young Adult Men

Background: There are only a few studies that have assessed awareness and knowledge regarding aerobic type of physical activity (PA) guidelines recommendations, while no previous studies have examined muscular type of activity recommendation guidelines. The aim was to assess knowledge and awareness and study the associations with demographic variables and physical activity and fitness. Methods: Participants were 776 young (age 26 ± 7 years) men. Awareness and knowledge of PA recommendation guidelines were assessed by prompted questionnaires together with demographic variables and physical activity. In addition, physical fitness was measured. Results: Forty percent of the participants reported being aware of the physical activity recommendation. Moreover, 7% correctly identified the recommendations for moderate aerobic physical activity and 25% for muscular type of activity. In addition, 4% correctly identified both aerobic and muscular activity recommendations. Being aware of the PA recommendations was associated with being married or partnered, having higher education level and being more physically active during leisure-time (p < 0.05). Individuals with no awareness of the recommendations had lower results in cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness compared to those being aware (p < 0.05). Being married or partnered was positively associated with the knowledge of the muscular activity recommendations (p < 0.05). Moreover, the individuals with correct knowledge of the PA recommendations had higher levels of muscular fitness (p < 0.05). Conclusion: A low number of individuals are aware or know the physical activity recommendations among young adult men. Therefore, more vigorous attempts to promote physical activity recommendations are needed.

Go ta catch 'em al or not enough time: Users motivations for playing Pokémon Go™ and non-users' reasons for not installing

Urban exergames are played in the real-world environment using built-in mobile phone sensors. The influence of Pokémon Go on physical activity and sitting time has been examined previously, however limited research has explored motivations for using the application. Thus, the aim of this study was to explore Pokémon Go users’ motivations for using the application, exusers’ reasons for abandoning the game and non-users’ reasons for not installing. After institutional ethical approval, the ‘Physical Activity and Pokémon Go’ questionnaire was developed using Qualtrics^TM and distributed using social media soon after launch in the United Kingdom (baseline). At baseline a total of 461 participants (n=193 male, n=265 female, n=3 transgender) who were predominantly white (n=420) and did not self-report a disability (n=443) completed the questionnaire. Users’ (n=236) were questioned on their motivations for using Pokémon Go and non-users’ provided reasons for not installing. At 3 months a total of 127 participants (n=23 users) completed the questionnaire again and all qualitative data was thematically analyzed. The most commonly reported reason for using Pokémon Go was ‘to have fun’ which was 86% and 83% at baseline and 3 months respectively. The second most frequent reason at baseline was ‘friends were using it’ (58%) and at 3 months was ‘to be outside’ (48%). The least common motivation for using Pokémon Go at both baseline and 3 months was ‘to meet new people’ (8% and 0% respectively). At baseline, social motives and competition were two general themes which encapsulated Pokémon Go users’ motivation for using the application. There were two general themes reported by Pokémon Go users’ as to why they did not think they would use the application in the future. These were application related factors and factors unrelated to Pokémon Go. Non-users reported a range of reasons for not using Pokémon Go, including lack of interest and a lack of time. Safety concerns and risk of adverse events were reported by both users and non-users. This is the first study to thematically analyze motives for using Pokémon Go in which the findings are: 1) future smartphone applications aiming to increase physical activity must ensure that objectives evolve to maintain initial interest and motivation to engage with applications; 2) game developers must consider the required phone storage and capability which could be a barrier to downloading; and 3) concerns of using the application including the safety of users and those around them.

[Access to public physical activity programs in Brazil: National Health Survey, 2013]

The article sought to describe awareness of public physical activity programs, practice of physical activity in public programs and barriers related to non-participation in these programs in a national representative sample according to sex, age, skin color, income, state and having been visited by a family health team (EqSF, in Portuguese) in the previous year. This is a cross-sectional survey with data from the Brazilian National Health Survey, 2013. We carried out descriptive analyses using the distribution of relative frequencies and their respective 95% confidence intervals, weighted in the sample design. We included 60,202 individuals. We found a 20% prevalence of awareness and, of these, 9.7% reported practicing physical activity in public programs. Most commonly reported barriers were lack of time (41.4%) and lack of interest in available activities (29.7%). Women have greater awareness when compared with men, but levels of physical activity were similar in both sexes. Awareness and physical activity were higher in the older age groups. Awareness increased with income, but the poorest participate more in public physical activity programs when compared with the other income categories. Awareness and physical activity were similar among those who were and were not visited by EqSF. Prevalences of awareness and participation in public physical activity programs are not expressive, with nearly 30% of individuals disinterested in current programs. Local-regional efforts are needed so that physical activity can be established as a health promotion tool.

Knowledge of the physical activity guidelines and factors associated with physical activity participation among adults in Harar town, eastern Ethiopia

Objectives

We assessed knowledge of the physical activity guidelines and factors associated with physical activity participation among adults in Harar town, eastern Ethiopia.

Design

A cross-sectional study of 590 adults in Harar town with face-to-face interview.

Results

Only 27% of participants had good knowledge of the physical activity guidelines. The extent of physical activity participation was 54% (95% CI 50.0% to 58.4%). Male participants (adjusted OR (AOR) 2.14; 95% CI 1.49 to 3.07), educational status of college diploma and above (AOR 2.06; 95% CI 1.09 to 3.89), sitting less than 2 hours per day (AOR 1.82; 95% CI: 1.17% to 2.83%) and good knowledge of physical activity (AOR 3.03; 95% CI 1.98 to 4.64) were associated with physical activity participation.

Conclusions

There is limited knowledge of physical activity guideline in the study area.

Changes in Psychosocial Factors and Physical Activity Among Finnish Working-Age Men in the Adventures of Joe Finn Campaign

This study evaluated changes in psychosocial factors and self-reported physical activity (PA) among the sample of Finnish men who underwent the fitness tests during the national health campaign. Another aim was to examine whether the fitness test feedback was a meaningful experience for PA change. Baseline data were collected in 2011 by fitness test and questionnaire. Men who had low/moderate fitness along with overweight ( n = 361) were recruited to the postcampaign study in 2014. Data were analyzed with nonparametric tests, logistic regression analysis, and content analysis. The postcampaign survey was completed by 102 men. Positive PA change was associated with high goals, planning skills, and self-efficacy for PA. One fourth of men recalled that they had surprisingly poor fitness at baseline. This experience was not related to positive PA change. A fitness test may awake motivation, but promotion of self-efficacy and self-regulatory skills is needed to support concrete behavior change.

A Smartphone App to Promote an Active Lifestyle in Lower-Educated Working Young Adults: Development, Usability, Acceptability, and Feasibility Study

Background

Physical activity (PA) levels are problematic in lower-educated working young adults (18-26 years). To promote PA, smartphone apps have great potential, but there is no evidence for their effectiveness in this population. To increase the likelihood that a newly developed app will be effective, formative research and user testing are required.

Objective

The aim of this study was to describe the development, usability, acceptability, and feasibility of a new theory- and evidence-based smartphone app to promote an active lifestyle in lower-educated working young adults.

Methods

The new app was developed by applying 4 steps. First, determinants important to promote an active lifestyle in this population were selected. Second, evidence-based behavior change techniques were selected to convert the determinants into practical applications. Third, a new smartphone app was developed. Fourth, volunteers (n=11, both lower and higher educated) tested the app on usability, and lower-educated working young adults (n=16) tested its acceptability and feasibility via (think aloud) interviews, a questionnaire, and Google Analytics. The app was accordingly adapted for the final version.

Results

A new Android app, Active Coach, was developed that focused on knowledge, attitude, social support, and self-efficacy (based on outcomes from step 1), and that applied self-regulation techniques (based on outcomes from step 2). The app consists of a 9-week program with personal goals, practical tips, and scientific facts to encourage an active lifestyle. To ensure all-day and automatic self-monitoring of the activity behavior, the Active Coach app works in combination with a wearable activity tracker, the Fitbit Charge. Issues detected by the usability test (eg, text errors, wrong messages) were all fixed. The acceptability and feasibility test showed that participants found the app clear, understandable, and motivating, although some aspects needed to be more personal.

Conclusions

By applying a stepwise, user-centered approach that regularly consulted the target group, the new app is adapted to their specific needs and preferences. The Active Coach app was overall positively evaluated by the lower-educated working young adults at the end of the development process.

Does knowledge of physical activity recommendations increase physical activity among Chinese college students? Empirical investigations based on the transtheoretical model

BACKGROUND

Based on the transtheoretical model, the current study investigated whether awareness of physical activity (PA) recommendations had an impact on the stages of PA behavior change and levels of PA among Chinese college students.

METHODS

In Study 1, with a cross-sectional study design, 9826 students were recruited, and their knowledge of international PA recommendations, PA stage distribution, and self-reported PA level were surveyed. Pearson's χ 2 test was used to test whether those participants who were aware and not aware of PA guidelines were equally distributed across the stages of PA behavior, and independent t test was conducted to test the group difference in the actual levels of PA. In Study 2, 279 students who were not aware of the PA recommendations were randomly allocated to either an intervention group or a control group, and only those in the intervention group were presented with international PA guidelines. In both groups, students' PA stages and PA level were examined before the test and then 4 months post-test. McNemar's test for correlated proportions and repeated-measures analysis of variance were conducted to examine the changes in PA stage membership and PA level after the intervention.

RESULTS

Study 1 results revealed that only 4.4% of the surveyed students had correct knowledge of PA recommendations. Those who were aware of the recommendations were in later stages of PA behavior (χ 2(4) = 167.19, p < 0.001). They were also significantly more physically active than those who were not aware of the recommendations (t(443.71) = 9.00, p < 0.001, Cohen's d = 0.53). Study 2 results demonstrated that the intervention group participants who were at the precontemplation and contemplation stages at the pre-test each progressed further in the PA stages in the post-test (χ 2(1) = 112.06, p < 0.001; χ 2(1) = 118.76, p = 0.03, respectively), although no significant change in PA level was observed (t(139) < 1, p = 0.89).

CONCLUSION

The results showed that awareness of the PA recommendations was associated with higher stages and levels of PA behavior, and a brief educational exposure to PA recommendations led to improved stages of PA behavior but no change in the levels of PA among Chinese college students. More effective public health campaign strategies are needed to promote the dissemination of the PA recommendations and to raise the awareness of the Chinese student population.

An evaluation of the behaviour-change techniques used on Canadian cancer centre Web sites to support physical activity behaviour for breast cancer survivors

Background

Cancer centre Web sites can be a useful tool for distributing information about the benefits of physical activity for breast cancer (bca) survivors, and they hold potential for supporting health behaviour change. However, the extent to which cancer centre Web sites use evidence-based behaviour change techniques to foster physical activity behaviour among bca survivors is currently unknown. The aim of our study was to evaluate the presentation of behaviour-change techniques on Canadian cancer centre Web sites to promote physical activity behaviour for bca survivors.

Methods

All Canadian cancer centre Web sites (n = 39) were evaluated by two raters using the Coventry, Aberdeen, and London-Refined (calo-re) taxonomy of behaviour change techniques and the eEurope 2002 Quality Criteria for Health Related Websites. Descriptive statistics were calculated.

Results

The most common behaviour change techniques used on Web sites were providing information about consequences in general (80%), suggesting goal-setting behaviour (56%), and planning social support or social change (46%). Overall, Canadian cancer centre Web sites presented an average of M = 6.31 behaviour change techniques (of 40 that were coded) to help bca survivors increase their physical activity behaviour. Evidence of quality factors ranged from 90% (sites that provided evidence of readability) to 0% (sites that provided an editorial policy).

Conclusions

Our results provide preliminary evidence that, of 40 behaviour-change techniques that were coded, fewer than 20% were used to promote physical activity behaviour to bca survivors on cancer centre Web sites, and that the most effective techniques were inconsistently used. On cancer centre Web sites, health promotion specialists could focus on emphasizing knowledge mobilization efforts using available research into behaviour-change techniques to help bca survivors increase their physical activity.

Novel technology to help understand the context of physical activity and sedentary behaviour

When used in large, national surveillance programmes, objective measurement tools provide prevalence estimates of low physical activity guideline compliance and high amounts of sedentary time. There are undoubtedly a plethora of reasons for this but one possible contributing factor is the current lack of behavioural context offered by accelerometers and posture sensors. Context includes information such as where the behaviour occurs, the type of activity being performed and is vital in allowing greater refinement of intervention strategies. Novel technologies are emerging with the potential to provide this information. Example data from three ongoing studies is used to illustrate the utility of these technologies. Study one assesses the concurrent validity of electrical energy monitoring and wearable cameras as measures of television viewing. This study found that on average the television is switched on for 202 min d^-1 but is visible in just 90 min of wearable camera images with a further 52 min where the participant is in their living room but the television is not visible in the image. Study two utilises indoor location monitoring to assess where older adult care home residents accumulate their sedentary time. This study found that residents were highly sedentary (sitting for an average of 720 min d^-1) and spent the majority of their time in their own rooms with more time spent in communal areas in the morning than in the afternoon. Lastly, study three discusses the use of proximity sensors to quantify exposure to a height adjustable desk. These studies are example applications of this technology, with many other technologies available and applications possible. The adoption of these technologies will provide researchers with a more complete understanding of the behaviour than has previously been available.

Canadian physical activity guidelines for adults: are Canadians aware?

The present study evaluated awareness of the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology’s 2011 Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines for Adults and assessed correlates. Reported awareness of the physical activity (PA) guidelines was 12.9% (204/1586) of the total sample surveyed. More than half (55%) self-reported meeting PA guidelines of ≥ 150 min of moderate to vigorous PA per week. Awareness of PA guidelines was significantly related to participants’ level of PA (χ2 (1) = 30.63, p < 0.001, φ = –0.14), but not to any demographic variables.

What do patients really know? An evaluation of patients' physical activity guideline knowledge within general practice

Background

Physical inactivity is well recognised as one of the leading causes of preventable death. However, little is known about the general public’s knowledge surrounding national physical activity guidelines, particularly within general practice (GP).

Setting

Two GPs (York and Maidenhead, UK).

Question

Are GP patients aware of the national physical guidelines? Also, are health care professionals routinely raising the issue of physical inactivity and would patients welcome support from health care professionals regarding inactivity?

Methodology

A questionnaire was distributed in two GPs over a one-week period to evaluate patients knowledge of the national physical activity guidelines.

Results

Ninety-four participants completed the questionnaire over one week (60 female; 34 male), with an average age of 54.2 (standard deviation: 19.9 years). 14% (95% Confidence Interval (CI): 8–22%) of the total participants correctly knew the recommended national guidelines for physical activity. 52% (95% CI: 42–63%) recalled being asked by a health care professional about their activity levels. 46% (95% CI: 35–56%) would welcome support from a health care professional around improving their activity levels.

Discussion/Conclusion

Only 14% of responders correctly knew the current national minimum activity guidelines. Encouragingly 46% of participants in our study were interested in physical activity advice from a health care professional. Health care professionals need to be aware that many patients do not know the current physical activity guidelines and recognise that primary care may be an underutilised opportunity to educate and promote physical activity.