Approaches to increase physical activity: reviewing the evidence for exercise-referral schemes.
OBJECTIVE
To review current evidence of effectiveness for exercise-referral schemes.


METHODS
Studies were identified from MEDLINE 1966-2002, EMBASE 1980-2002 and CINHAL 1982-2002 and bibliographies of relevant papers.


METHODS
Interventions providing access to exercise activities and/or facilities, experimental or quasi-experimental studies, studies with a control group, interventions based in a primary care setting, and interventions including an exercise component with measures of physical activity levels.


CONCLUSIONS
Exercise-referral schemes appear to increase physical activity levels in certain populations, namely individuals who are not sedentary but already slightly active, older adults and those who are overweight (but not obese). However, increases in the level of physical activity may not be sustained over time. Further studies are required to assess effectiveness in a range of populations and for different activities, and to find strategies to increase long-term adherence.
Morgan
O
O
Kensington and Chelsea Primary Care Trust, London, UK. omorgan@bigfoot.com
D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D015444:Exercise; D015438:Health Behavior; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D009043:Motor Activity; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D016896:Treatment Outcome