Effects of Exercise Behavior and Amount of Exercise on Public Health: How to Overcome Barriers to Increase Adherence

Topic Information

Dear Colleagues,

Positive exercise motivation and an appropriate amount of exercise are beneficial to physical health. A substantial portion of the elderly population, athletes, and chronic patients suffer from several chronic comorbidities that significantly reduce their quality of life. However, effective actions are needed to promote health throughout life, making this phenomenon sustainable. Several of these musculoskeletal health conditions could be prevented or ameliorated with adequate physical activity and exercise. In this context, exercise behavior and amount of exercise (and its different manifestations: sports participation, physical exercise, etc.) have been recognized as powerful allies to prevent and/or counteract the public health decline associated with specific conditions. The process of generating robust scientific evidence should be encouraged to verify the short-, medium-, and/or long-term effects in individuals with specific conditions throughout their life. How to overcome barriers to increase adherence is also very important. Papers addressing these topics are invited for this Special Issue, especially those combining a high academic standard coupled with a practical focus on the effects of exercise behavior and amount of exercise on public health.

Prof. Dr. Joao Gustavo Oliveira Claudino
Dr. Paula Alves Monteiro
Dr. Ana Carolina Paludo
Dr. Helder Fonseca
Dr. Enrico Fuini Puggina
Prof. Dr. Romulo Fernandes
Dr. Sílvia Rocha-Rodrigues
Dr. Julio Cerca Serrao
Topic Editors

Keywords

Participating Journals

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Healthcare healthcare	2.4	3.5	2013	20.3 Days	CHF 2700	Submit
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health ijerph	-	7.3	2004	25.8 Days	CHF 2500	Submit
Journal of Clinical Medicine jcm	3.0	5.7	2012	16 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Nutrients nutrients	4.8	9.2	2009	13.5 Days	CHF 2900	Submit
Sports sports	2.2	4.1	2013	19.1 Days	CHF 1800	Submit

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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14 pages, 426 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of E-Health Literacy and Patient–Physician Relationship on Treatment Adherence

by M. Kemal Boz and Mesut Çimen

Healthcare 2025, 13(6), 632; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13060632 - 14 Mar 2025

Viewed by 460

Abstract

Objective: The Internet is actively used for gathering and learning health-related knowledge. The uncertainty surrounding the reliability of health information found online has heightened the importance of effective relationships between patients and physicians, as well as the value of a physician’s guidance. This [...] Read more.

Objective: The Internet is actively used for gathering and learning health-related knowledge. The uncertainty surrounding the reliability of health information found online has heightened the importance of effective relationships between patients and physicians, as well as the value of a physician’s guidance. This study focused on investigating the impact of individuals’ e-health literacy level and their relationship with their physicians on their treatment adherence. In addition, the aim was to determine the mediatory role of patient–physician relationship in the effect of e-health literacy on treatment adherence. Materials and Methods: The study population included volunteering participants over the age of 18 living in the city of Istanbul. The study employed a survey method, gathering data from 425 participants between 15 April and 15 August 2023. Results: According to the results of the research, e-health literacy has an effect on patient–physician relationships, patient–physician relationship has an effect on treatment adherence, and e-health literacy has an effect on treatment adherence. It was found that patient–physician relationship played a mediatory role in the relationship between e-health literacy and treatment adherence. Conclusions: E-health literacy and patient–physician relationship were found to be factors affecting treatment adherence. Some suggestions were made within the framework of these results. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effects of Exercise Behavior and Amount of Exercise on Public Health: How to Overcome Barriers to Increase Adherence)

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15 pages, 717 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

A Study on 10-Week Combined Aerobic and Resistance Training Exercise Prescription for Female Patients with Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

by Lu Zhang, Jingbo He, Quancheng Zhang and Ling Wang

Healthcare 2025, 13(6), 592; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13060592 - 8 Mar 2025

Viewed by 1071

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Female pelvic floor dysfunction (FPFD) is a prevalent condition affecting postpartum women. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a 10-week combined aerobic and resistance training exercise prescription in improving pelvic floor muscle strength and function in postpartum women with [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Female pelvic floor dysfunction (FPFD) is a prevalent condition affecting postpartum women. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a 10-week combined aerobic and resistance training exercise prescription in improving pelvic floor muscle strength and function in postpartum women with FPFD. Methods: Thirty postpartum women diagnosed with FPFD underwent a 10-week exercise intervention. This study adopted a single-group pre–post design. Pelvic floor muscle electromyography assessment indicators were measured before and after the intervention. Results: The exercise intervention significantly improved the maximum value of fast-twitch muscle fibers (type II) and the average value of slow-twitch muscle fibers (type I) while reducing resting tension and variability. Conclusions: A 10-week combined aerobic and resistance training exercise prescription effectively improves pelvic floor muscle strength in postpartum women. It enhances the maximum value of fast-twitch (type II) muscle fibers, reduces rise and recovery times, and improves slow-twitch (type I) muscle fiber function, including increasing the mean value and reducing variability, rise time, and recovery time. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effects of Exercise Behavior and Amount of Exercise on Public Health: How to Overcome Barriers to Increase Adherence)

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14 pages, 692 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Characteristics of Children with an Undesirable Motor Competence Development During the Transition from Early to Middle Childhood: Results of a 2-Year Longitudinal Study

by Pim Koolwijk, Ester de Jonge, Remo Mombarg, Teun Remmers, Dave Van Kann, Ingrid van Aart, Geert Savelsbergh and Sanne de Vries

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(11), 1460; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21111460 - 31 Oct 2024

Viewed by 1387

Abstract

Objective: Motor competence development from early to middle childhood is accompanied by great variance. This course can be influenced by many factors in the ecosystem. The objective of this study was to examine which individual characteristics are associated with an undesirable motor competence [...] Read more.

Objective: Motor competence development from early to middle childhood is accompanied by great variance. This course can be influenced by many factors in the ecosystem. The objective of this study was to examine which individual characteristics are associated with an undesirable motor competence development during the transition from early to middle childhood. Methods: A longitudinal study was conducted between February 2020 and May 2022. Actual and perceived motor competence and the potential determinants physical activity enjoyment, weight status, and organized sports participation of children (49% boys) aged 4–6 years old at T0 (N = 721) were measured at two points in time, separated by a two-year interval. Associations between potential determinants and AMC, including interactions with time, were analyzed using linear mixed-effect regression models with continuous motor quotient scores as outcome variables. Results: Overweight, obesity, and lack of organized sports participation were associated with lower motor quotient scores over time. Multivariate analyses showed that associations of weight status (overweight and obesity) and sports participation with motor quotient scores remained significant after adjustment for variations in perceived motor competence and physical activity enjoyment. Conclusions: Excessive body weight and lack of sports participation from early childhood are associated with an increased risk of an undesirable motor competence development over time. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effects of Exercise Behavior and Amount of Exercise on Public Health: How to Overcome Barriers to Increase Adherence)

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10 pages, 1090 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Association of Tai Chi and Square Dance with Cognitive Function in Chinese Older Adults

by Xiaoguang Zhao, Dongxue Liu and Jin Wang

Healthcare 2024, 12(18), 1878; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12181878 - 19 Sep 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1054

Abstract

Objective: This study explores the association of Tai Chi and square dance with cognitive function and compares the effects of the two fitness programs on cognitive function in Chinese older adults. Methods: A total of 1732 older people (aged 60 years and over) [...] Read more.

Objective: This study explores the association of Tai Chi and square dance with cognitive function and compares the effects of the two fitness programs on cognitive function in Chinese older adults. Methods: A total of 1732 older people (aged 60 years and over) met the inclusion criteria from the 2018 Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey. Based on the frequency of participating in Tai Chi and square dance, older adults were divided into three groups: a Tai Chi group (n = 234), a square dance group (n = 345), and a control group (n = 1153). Cognitive function was measured using a modified Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Participation in Tai Chi or square dance was investigated by asking the subjects to report how often they participated in the fitness programs. Results: Older adults in both the Tai Chi group and the square dance group had higher scores in all MMSE items, including orientation, registration, attention and calculation, recall, and language, compared to those in the control group. But there were no significant differences in any MMSE items between the Tai Chi group and the square dance group. Multiple regression analysis showed that participating in Tai Chi or square dance, age, educational level, and sex can predict cognitive function in older people. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that participating in Tai Chi and square dance are associated with better cognitive function, and Tai Chi and square dance have similar effects on cognitive function in the Chinese older population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effects of Exercise Behavior and Amount of Exercise on Public Health: How to Overcome Barriers to Increase Adherence)

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11 pages, 2392 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Current Status and Barriers of Exercise in Individuals with Spinal Cord Injuries in Korea: A Survey

by Yuna Kim, Sung-Hwa Ko, Jung-Lim Lee and Sungchul Huh

Healthcare 2024, 12(10), 1030; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12101030 - 16 May 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1806

Abstract

This study investigated exercise participation, health status, and barriers to exercise in 109 individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) using a self-report questionnaire. The responses of the exercise and non-exercise groups were statistically analyzed using t-tests or Fisher’s exact test. Significant differences were [...] Read more.

This study investigated exercise participation, health status, and barriers to exercise in 109 individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) using a self-report questionnaire. The responses of the exercise and non-exercise groups were statistically analyzed using t-tests or Fisher’s exact test. Significant differences were observed in the cause of injury and the American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale between the groups. The non-exercise group had a higher incidence of traumatic and complete injuries. Demographic factors such as gender, age, income level, and marital status did not significantly influence exercise participation. The exercise group reported lower pain scores, less inconvenience from complications, and higher activity and participation scores. However, less than half of the individuals with SCI met the recommended exercise intensity, and community facility usage was low. Barriers to exercise participation included severe disabilities, lack of time, insufficient exercise information, and lack of facility accessibility. To enhance exercise among individuals with SCI, it is essential to develop and extend exercise programs tailored to individual physical factors and a comprehensive understanding of barriers. Prioritizing community-based data management, alongside developing social systems and health policies, is crucial to overcome barriers to exercise participation for individuals with SCI. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effects of Exercise Behavior and Amount of Exercise on Public Health: How to Overcome Barriers to Increase Adherence)

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11 pages, 1713 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Physical Activity Levels in Patients with Cardiovascular Disease—A Preliminary Study

by Saori Kakita, Takatomo Watanabe, Junya Yamagishi, Chiaki Tanaka, Daichi Watanabe and Hiroyuki Okura

Healthcare 2024, 12(7), 784; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12070784 - 3 Apr 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1460

Abstract

Increased physical activity may prevent disease onset and severity in individuals with cardiovascular disease. However, studies evaluating physical activity in people with cardiovascular disease are limited. This prospective observational study aimed to objectively assess the level of physical activity in patients with cardiovascular [...] Read more.

Increased physical activity may prevent disease onset and severity in individuals with cardiovascular disease. However, studies evaluating physical activity in people with cardiovascular disease are limited. This prospective observational study aimed to objectively assess the level of physical activity in patients with cardiovascular disease and determine the actual extent of physical activity in their daily lives. Participants aged 20 years or older with cardiovascular disease at a cardiology clinic were included. Physical activity was measured using an activity meter with a three-axis acceleration sensor. Overall, 58 patients were included in the study. Household activities were found to be more frequent sources of physical activity. The step count was related to age and housework, while total physical activity and household activity were related to age and work. Locomotive activity was related to sex and housework. Total physical and household activities tended to decrease with age. These findings indicate the influence of work and household chores on physical activity and suggest that physical activity may be underestimated if household activity is not also assessed. These fundamental findings may provide clinical evidence to underpin physical activity for patients with cardiovascular disease. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effects of Exercise Behavior and Amount of Exercise on Public Health: How to Overcome Barriers to Increase Adherence)

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9 pages, 244 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Physical Impact of Traditional and Virtual Physical Exercise Programs on Health Outcomes among Corporate Employees

by John Oginni, Grace Otinwa and Zan Gao

J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(3), 694; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13030694 - 25 Jan 2024

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1875

Abstract

Background: Technology-based exercise programs have the potential to reduce chronic disease prevalence and obesity-related risks. This research focuses on the impact of both traditional and virtual exercise programs on the health metrics of corporate employees. Methods: The study involved 30 corporate [...] Read more.

Background: Technology-based exercise programs have the potential to reduce chronic disease prevalence and obesity-related risks. This research focuses on the impact of both traditional and virtual exercise programs on the health metrics of corporate employees. Methods: The study involved 30 corporate employees (16 females, average age ± SD = 37.8 ± 8.8 years) from Nigeria, who were divided into two experimental groups (one experiencing traditional exercises with an on-site trainer, and the other participating in live, virtual classes via Zoom) and a control group continuing usual practices. The 6-week intervention measured several health outcomes, including resting heart rate, blood pressure (both diastolic and systolic), body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and waist-hip ratio, both before and after the intervention. Results: One-way analysis of covariance yielded significantly greater decreases in the diastolic blood pressure, F(2,27) = 3.7, p < 0.04; systolic blood pressure F(2,27) = 3.5, p < 0.04, body mass index, F(2,26) = 7.8, p < 0.01, and waist circumference, F(2,27) = 39.1, p < 0.01. Conclusions: The study concludes that virtual-based exercise programs are as effective as traditional ones. Offering a virtual exercise option provides flexibility, potentially increasing adherence to exercise routines among corporate workers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effects of Exercise Behavior and Amount of Exercise on Public Health: How to Overcome Barriers to Increase Adherence)

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