Factors Influencing Community Leaders in Exercise Program Implementation
Author Information
Author(s): Rebecca A Seguin, Ruth Palombo, Christina D Economos, Raymond Hyatt, Julia Kuder, Miriam E Nelson
Primary Institution: Tufts University
Hypothesis
Implementation of the StrongWomen Program would be positively associated with a community leader's previous strength training experience, support, and leadership characteristics compared to leaders who did not implement the program.
Conclusion
Several factors related to professional, socioeconomic, personal/behavioral, and leadership characteristics were associated with whether community leaders implemented a community-based exercise program.
Supporting Evidence
- Implementers reported higher levels of strength training participation and perceived support.
- Leaders with fitness credentials were more likely to implement the program.
- Support-focused leadership style was positively associated with implementation.
Takeaway
This study found that community leaders who have fitness credentials and feel supported are more likely to start exercise programs for others.
Methodology
A cross-sectional study using a survey to explore relationships between various characteristics and the implementation of a strength training program.
Potential Biases
Response bias may have affected the results, although the response rate was 57%.
Limitations
The study used a convenience sample and cross-sectional design, limiting the ability to infer causality and generalize findings.
Participant Demographics
The majority of respondents were educated white females, with over 90% working full- or part-time.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.003 for fitness credentials, p = 0.002 for program-specific self-efficacy, p = 0.006 for support-focused leadership.
Confidence Interval
95% CI = 1.3–3.9 for fitness credentials.
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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