Participatory research to promote physical activity at congregate-meal sites.
The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility and effectiveness of an on-site physical activity (PA) program offered with congregate meals. Study 1 surveyed meal-site users on their likelihood to participate. Study 2 used meal-site-manager interviews and site visits to determine organizational feasibility. Study 3, a controlled pilot study, randomized meal sites to a 12-week group-based social-cognitive (GBSC) intervention or a standard-care control. Studies 1 and 2 indicated that most meal-site users would participate in an on-site PA program, and meal sites had well-suited physical resources and strong organizational support for this type of program. In Study 3, GBSC participants increased their weekly PA over those in the control condition (p < .05, ES = .79). Results indicated that changes in task cohesion might have mediated intervention effectiveness. These studies demonstrate that a PA program offered in this venue is feasible, is effective in promoting PA, and could have a strong public health impact.
Clinical Research Unit, Kaiser Permanente-Colorado, Denver, CO 80237-8066, USA.
Paul A
PA
Estabrooks
Elizabeth H
EH
Fox
Shawna E
SE
Doerksen
Michael H
MH
Bradshaw
Abby C
AC
King
D000368:Aged; D015444:Exercise; D005260:Female; D005522:Food Services; D006293:Health Promotion; D006302:Health Services Research; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010809:Physical Fitness