Research

14 pages, 2457 KiB

Open AccessArticle

“I Felt I Was Actually Inside the Movie” An Exploratory Study into Children’s Views of Staging a Physically Active Experience, with Implications for Future Interventions

by Emily Budzynski-Seymour, Michelle Jones and James Steele

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(4), 3624; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20043624 - 17 Feb 2023

Viewed by 1754

Abstract

Current levels of inactivity suggest novel approaches are needed to engage children in physical activity (PA), and enjoyment is a strong motivator for children’s PA engagement. A physically active experience (PAE) was proposed as a way to use entertainment, education, (e)aesthetics and escapist [...] Read more.

Current levels of inactivity suggest novel approaches are needed to engage children in physical activity (PA), and enjoyment is a strong motivator for children’s PA engagement. A physically active experience (PAE) was proposed as a way to use entertainment, education, (e)aesthetics and escapist methods to promote PA to children in a way that is immersive and enables them to actively partake whilst enjoying their experience. In this current mixed methods study, three physically active experiences based on popular children’s movies were designed and staged, in order to explore children’s views on staging a PAE and provide implications for future PA interventions. Seventeen children (boys n = nine, girls n = eight) between the ages of nine and ten years provided feedback on the experiences. The children watched a pre-recorded video presenting the physically active experiences and then completed a survey including affective forecasting responses, which was followed by participation in an online focus group where views on the experiences were explored further. For all three experiences, the mean anticipated affective response for valence was between ”fairly good” and “good”, and for arousal between “a bit awake” and “awake”. Further, when asked, the children reported wanting to take part in the experiences (experience 1: 82.4%, experience 2: 76.5%, experience 3: 64.7%). The qualitative data revealed that children felt that they would enjoy the sessions, feel immersed in their environment, transported away from reality, and that they would be able to learn something new regarding PA. These results support the implementation of a PAE to engage children in enjoyable PA; future interventions should use these findings to engage children in a PAE, examining their actual responses to the activities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mixed-Methods Evaluation of Physical Activity, Exercise or Sedentary Behaviour Interventions)

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36 pages, 1305 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Families’ Acceptance of Wearable Activity Trackers: A Mixed-Methods Study

by Amy V. Creaser, Jennifer Hall, Silvia Costa, Daniel D. Bingham and Stacy A. Clemes

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3472; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063472 - 15 Mar 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2494

Abstract

Background: The family environment plays a crucial role in child physical activity (PA). Wearable activity trackers (wearables) show potential for increasing children’s PA; however, few studies have explored families’ acceptance of wearables. This study investigated the acceptability of using wearables in a family [...] Read more.

Background: The family environment plays a crucial role in child physical activity (PA). Wearable activity trackers (wearables) show potential for increasing children’s PA; however, few studies have explored families’ acceptance of wearables. This study investigated the acceptability of using wearables in a family setting, aligning experiences with components of the Technology Acceptance Model and Theoretical Domains Framework. Methods: Twenty-four families, with children aged 5–9 years, took part in a 5-week study, where all members were provided with a Fitbit Alta HR for 4 weeks. Acceptability was measured using weekly surveys and pre-post-questionnaires. Nineteen families participated in a focus group. Quantitative and qualitative data were integrated using the Pillar Integration Process technique. Results: Pillars reflected (1) external variables impacting wearable use and PA and (2) wearable use, (3) ease of use, (4) usefulness for increasing PA and other health outcomes, (5) attitudes, and (6) intention to use a wearable, including future intervention suggestions. Conclusions: Families found the Fitbit easy to use and acceptable, but use varied, and perceived impact on PA were mixed, with external variables contributing towards this. This study provides insights into how wearables may be integrated into family-based PA interventions and highlights barriers and facilitators of family wearable use. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mixed-Methods Evaluation of Physical Activity, Exercise or Sedentary Behaviour Interventions)

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15 pages, 368 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Rise and Recharge: Exploring Employee Perceptions of and Contextual Factors Influencing an Individual-Level E-Health Smartphone Intervention to Reduce Office Workers’ Sedentary Time at Work

by Abigail S. Morris, Kelly A. Mackintosh, Neville Owen, Paddy C. Dempsey, David W. Dunstan and Melitta A. McNarry

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(18), 9627; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18189627 - 13 Sep 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2580

Abstract

This feasibility study explored the contextual factors influencing office workers’ adherence to an e-health intervention targeting total and prolonged sedentary time over 12 weeks. A three-arm quasi-randomized intervention included prompts at 30 or 60 min intervals delivered via a smartphone application, and a [...] Read more.

This feasibility study explored the contextual factors influencing office workers’ adherence to an e-health intervention targeting total and prolonged sedentary time over 12 weeks. A three-arm quasi-randomized intervention included prompts at 30 or 60 min intervals delivered via a smartphone application, and a no-prompt comparison arm. Fifty-six office workers completed baseline (64% female) and 44 completed the 12 week follow-up (80% retention). Ecological momentary assessments (EMA) captured contextual data, with 82.8 ± 24.9 EMA prompt questionnaires completed weekly. Two focus groups with n = 8 Prompt 30 and 60 participants were conducted one-month post-intervention to address intervention acceptability and feasibility. Contextual findings indicate that when working on a sedentary task (i.e., reading or screen-based work) and located at an individual workstation, hourly prompts may be more acceptable and feasible for promoting a reduction in total and prolonged sedentary time compared to 30 min prompts. Interpersonal support also appears important for promoting subtle shifts in sedentary working practices. This novel study gives a real-time insight into the factors influencing adherence to e-health prompts. Findings identified unique, pragmatic considerations for delivering a workplace e-health intervention, indicating that further research is warranted to optimize the method of intervention delivery prior to evaluation of a large-scale intervention. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mixed-Methods Evaluation of Physical Activity, Exercise or Sedentary Behaviour Interventions)

16 pages, 571 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Socioecological Factors Associated with an Urban Exercise Prescription Program for Under-Resourced Women: A Mixed Methods Community-Engaged Research Project

by Sarah M. Camhi, Gifty Debordes-Jackson, Julianna Andrews, Julie Wright, Ana Cristina Lindsay, Philip J. Troped and Laura L. Hayman

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(16), 8726; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18168726 - 18 Aug 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2715

Abstract

One strategy to promote physical activity (PA) is for health care providers to give exercise prescriptions (ExRx) that refer to community-based facilities. However, facilitators and barriers specific to urban programs in the US for under-resourced women are unknown. Thus the purpose of this [...] Read more.

One strategy to promote physical activity (PA) is for health care providers to give exercise prescriptions (ExRx) that refer to community-based facilities. However, facilitators and barriers specific to urban programs in the US for under-resourced women are unknown. Thus the purpose of this formative research was to explore ExRx barriers and facilitators specific to US under-resourced women to inform future intervention targets and strategies. This mixed-methods community-engaged research was conducted in partnership with an urban women’s only wellness center that exchanged ExRx for free access (1–3 months). Qualitative semi-structured interviews and validated quantitative questionnaires (SF-12, International Physical Activity Questionnaire, Physical Activity Self-Efficacy, Physical Activity Stage of Change, and Barriers to Physical Activity, Social Support for Exercise, and Confusion, Hubbub, and Order Scale) were administered by phone and guided by the socio-ecological model. ExRx utilization was defined as number visits/week divided by membership duration. Means and percentages were compared between ≥1 visit/week vs. <1 visit/week with t-tests and chi-square, respectively. Women (n = 30) were 74% Black, 21–78 years of age, 50% had ≤ high school diploma, and 69% had household incomes ≤45,000/year. Women with ≥1 visit/week (n = 10; 33%) reported more education and higher daily activity, motivation, number of family CVD risk factors and family history of dyslipidemia compared with <1 visit/week. Facilitators among women with ≥1 visit/week were “readiness” and “right timing” for ExRx utilization. Barriers among women with <1 visit/week (n = 20; 67%) were “mismatched expectations” and “competing priorities”. Common themes among all women were “sense of community” and “ease of location”. ExRx utilization at an US urban wellness center may be dependent on a combination of multi-level factors including motivation, confidence, peer support, location and ease of access in under-sourced women. Additional resources may be needed to address mental and/or physical health status in additional to physical activity specific programming. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mixed-Methods Evaluation of Physical Activity, Exercise or Sedentary Behaviour Interventions)

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27 pages, 1068 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Mixed-Methods Evaluation of CARE (Cancer and Rehabilitation Exercise): A Physical Activity and Health Intervention, Delivered in a Community Football Trust

by Zoe Rutherford, Stephen Zwolinsky, Nicky Kime and Andy Pringle

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(6), 3327; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18063327 - 23 Mar 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4270

Abstract

With increasing cancer survivorship has come an increased necessity to support people living with cancer (PLWC) to have a good quality of life including being physically active. Using mixed methods, the current study aimed to use the RE-AIM evaluation framework (Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, [...] Read more.

With increasing cancer survivorship has come an increased necessity to support people living with cancer (PLWC) to have a good quality of life including being physically active. Using mixed methods, the current study aimed to use the RE-AIM evaluation framework (Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation and Maintenance) to determine how the football community trust delivered CARE (Cancer and Rehabilitation Exercise) intervention was able to increase participants’ physical activity in order to improve their quality of life and regain physiological and psychological function. Quantitative outcome data were collected at baseline, 3 and 6 months using the Cancer Physical Activity Standard Evaluation Framework questionnaire. Semi-structured focus groups (n = 5) captured participants’ (n = 40) lived experience of the reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance of CARE. Questionnaire data were analysed using repeated measures ANOVAs and qualitative data were thematically analysed. Following diagnosis, CARE was successful in providing participants with a unique and accessible opportunity to become or restart physically activity, by providing a local, socially supportive, and inclusive environment. This resulted in significant increases in physical activity (F_{(1.58, 23)} = 5.98, p = 0.009), quality of life (QoL) (F_(2,36) = 13.12, p = 0.000) and significant reductions in fatigue (F_(1.57,31) = 11.19, p = 0.000) over 6 months. Participants also reported becoming more active, recovering physical function, regaining independence, and enhanced psychological well-being as a result of attending CARE. Key design features of CARE were also identified across RE-AIM. CARE, a football community trust delivered physical activity intervention was successful in significantly improving participants’ QoL and in regaining the physical and psychological functioning of people living with cancer. Results suggest that maintaining engagement in CARE for 6 months and beyond can support people to maintain these changes. Engaging in robust evaluations such as this can help organizations to successfully secure future funding for their programs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mixed-Methods Evaluation of Physical Activity, Exercise or Sedentary Behaviour Interventions)

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17 pages, 772 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of a High-Intensity PrO2Fit Inspiratory Muscle Training Intervention on Physiological and Psychological Health in Adults with Bronchiectasis: A Mixed-Methods Study

by Jessica L. McCreery, Kelly A. Mackintosh, Rebekah Mills-Bennett and Melitta A. McNarry

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(6), 3051; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18063051 - 16 Mar 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3386

Abstract

Bronchiectasis is characterised by airflow obstruction and hyperinflation resulting in respiratory muscle weakness, and decreased exercise capacity. Inspiratory muscle training (IMT) is potentially an alternative treatment strategy to enhance respiratory muscle strength and endurance. Therefore, the aim was to investigate the effects of [...] Read more.

Bronchiectasis is characterised by airflow obstruction and hyperinflation resulting in respiratory muscle weakness, and decreased exercise capacity. Inspiratory muscle training (IMT) is potentially an alternative treatment strategy to enhance respiratory muscle strength and endurance. Therefore, the aim was to investigate the effects of IMT on those with bronchiectasis. Eighteen participants (10 bronchiectasis) took part in an eight-week, three times a week IMT programme at 80% sustained maximal inspiratory pressure (SMIP). Lung function, respiratory muscle strength and endurance, exercise capacity, physical activity and self-determination theory measures were taken. Participants also took part in a semi-structured interview to assess their perceptions and experience of an IMT intervention. After eight weeks of IMT, bronchiectasis and healthy participants exhibited significant increases in MIP (27% vs. 32%, respectively), SMIP (16% vs. 17%, respectively) and inspiratory duration (36% vs. 30%, respectively). Healthy participants exhibited further improvements in peak expiratory flow and maximal oxygen consumption. Bronchiectasis participants reported high levels of perceived competence and motivation, reporting higher adherence and improved physical ability. Eight weeks of IMT increased inspiratory muscle strength and endurance in those with bronchiectasis. IMT also had a positive effect on perceived competency and autonomy, with bronchiectasis participants reporting improved physical ability and motivation, and high adherence. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mixed-Methods Evaluation of Physical Activity, Exercise or Sedentary Behaviour Interventions)

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13 pages, 597 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pilot Testing of a Nudge-Based Digital Intervention (Welbot) to Improve Sedentary Behaviour and Wellbeing in the Workplace

by Caitlin Haile, Alison Kirk, Nicola Cogan, Xanne Janssen, Ann-Marie Gibson and Bradley MacDonald

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(16), 5763; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17165763 - 10 Aug 2020

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 5729

Abstract

Welbot is a nudge-based digital intervention that aims to reduce sedentary behaviour and improve physical and mental wellbeing at work. The purpose of this study was to pilot test the Welbot intervention. Forty-one (6M/35F) University staff (M age = 43-years) participated in [...] Read more.

Welbot is a nudge-based digital intervention that aims to reduce sedentary behaviour and improve physical and mental wellbeing at work. The purpose of this study was to pilot test the Welbot intervention. Forty-one (6M/35F) University staff (M age = 43-years) participated in this study, which was a single arm repeated measures trial conducted over three weeks of intervention. The primary outcome was sedentary behaviour (measured subjectively and objectively) and secondary outcomes included: mental wellbeing, procrastination, depression, anxiety and stress, and work engagement. A subset of participants (n = 6) wore an ActivPAL to objectively measure activity data, while another subset of participants (n = 6) completed a qualitative semi-structured interview to ascertain experiences of using Welbot. Following the intervention, a Friedman non-parametric test revealed that participants self-reported significantly less time sitting and more time standing and objectively recorded more steps at the week-1 follow-up. A series of paired t-tests exhibited that changes in all secondary outcomes were in the expected direction. However, only improvements in depression, anxiety, and stress were significant. After using Welbot, thematic analysis demonstrated that participants perceived they had a positive behaviour change, increased awareness of unhealthy behaviours at work, and provided suggestions for intervention improvement. Overall, findings provided indications of the potential positive impact Welbot may have on employees’ wellbeing, however, limitations are noted. Recommendations for intervention improvement including personalisation (e.g., individual preferences for nudges and the option to sync Welbot with online calendars) and further research into how users engage with Welbot are provided. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mixed-Methods Evaluation of Physical Activity, Exercise or Sedentary Behaviour Interventions)

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27 pages, 1730 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Mixed Methods Evaluation of a Digital Intervention to Improve Sedentary Behaviour Across Multiple Workplace Settings

by Bradley MacDonald, Ann-Marie Gibson, Xanne Janssen and Alison Kirk

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(12), 4538; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17124538 - 24 Jun 2020

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3192

Abstract

Background: Prolonged sedentary behaviour (SB) is associated with risk of chronic diseases. Digital interventions in SB require mixed method evaluations to understand potential for impact in real-world settings. In this study, the RE-AIM QuEST evaluation framework will be used to understand the potential [...] Read more.

Background: Prolonged sedentary behaviour (SB) is associated with risk of chronic diseases. Digital interventions in SB require mixed method evaluations to understand potential for impact in real-world settings. In this study, the RE-AIM QuEST evaluation framework will be used to understand the potential of a digital health promotion application which targets reducing and breaking up SB across multiple workplace settings. Methods: Four companies and 80 employees were recruited to use a digital application. Questionnaires were used to measure SB, and additional health and work-related outcomes at baseline, one month, three month and six month follow-up. Qualitative data was collected through focus groups with employees and interviews with stakeholders. Questionnaire data was analysed using Wilcoxon Sign Rank tests and qualitative data was thematically analysed. Results: The digital application significantly increased standing time at one month for the total group and transitions per hour in one of the companies. Facilitators and barriers were identified across RE-AIM. Conclusions: Addressing the barriers which have been identified, while maintaining the positive attributes will be critical to producing an effective digital application which also has the potential for impact in the real world. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mixed-Methods Evaluation of Physical Activity, Exercise or Sedentary Behaviour Interventions)

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