Community Intervention to Promote Physical Activity
Author Information
Author(s): Catherine Lorentzen, Yngvar Ommundsen, Anne Karen Jenum, Ingar Holme
Primary Institution: Norwegian School of Sport Sciences
Hypothesis
Does exposure to specific components of a community-based physical activity intervention lead to changes in stages of change in physical activity?
Conclusion
Participation in physical activity groups was more strongly related to positive changes in physical activity behavior than other components of the intervention.
Supporting Evidence
- Participation in walking groups was positively related to changes in physical activity stages.
- Women showed significant improvements in physical activity stages when using the walk path.
- Social support from friends was a key mediator in the relationship between intervention participation and physical activity change.
Takeaway
The study found that joining walking and exercise groups helps people become more active, especially when they feel supported by friends.
Methodology
The study used surveys to assess participants' exposure to intervention components and changes in their physical activity stages over three years.
Potential Biases
Potential biases include recall bias and social desirability bias due to self-reported measures.
Limitations
The study relied on self-reported data, which may introduce recall and social desirability biases.
Participant Demographics
Participants were primarily adults aged 31 to 67, with a majority being of Western origin.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = .011 for walking groups; p < .001 for aerobic exercise groups
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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