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Purpose: While research demonstrates low levels of physical activity (PA) among adults living with atrial fibrillation (AF), there is limited evidence investigating sex differences in moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) and sedentary time in this population. The primary aim was to examine sex differences in MVPA levels and sitting time between women and men with AF. Secondary aims explored sex differences in sociodemographic factors, outcome expectations, and task self-efficacy toward PA levels., Methods: This was a subanalysis of the CHAMPLAIN-AF cohort study. Women and men with AF completed a survey, including the Short-Form International Physical Activity Questionnaire., Results: A total of 210 women (median = 66.0 yr: 95% CI, 63.5-68.0) and 409 men (median = 66.0 yr: 95% CI, 64.0-67.0) were included. No sex differences were observed in median weekly MVPA (60 min/wk: 95% CI, 0-120 in women vs 120 min/wk: 95% CI, 85-150 in men) and daily sitting time (5.5 hr/d: 95% CI, 5.0-6.0 in women vs 6.0 hr/d: 95% CI, 5.0-6.0 in men). Women engaged in significantly less vigorous-intensity PA than men ( P = .03) and demonstrated significantly lower task self-efficacy ( P < .01). Significant positive correlations in PA levels with outcome expectations (mostly weak) and task self-efficacy (mostly strong) were observed in both sexes., Conclusion: Most women and men with AF did not meet the global MVPA guidelines but met the sitting time recommendation. Women presented with lower vigorous-intensity physical activity levels and confidence than men. Strategies to increase physical activity behavior, considering sociodemographic factors and task self-efficacy, are needed and may differ between sexes., Competing Interests: All authors declare no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

In response to COVID-19 social distancing restrictions, digitally delivered health interventions present as a potential solution for maintaining or improving individuals' physical activity. This study explored the feasibility of a web-based intervention, informed by the multi-process action control (M-PAC) framework to promote PA among individuals affected by social distancing. Fifty adults self-reporting as insufficiently active were randomized to a 6-week web-intervention (n = 27) or wait-list control (n = 23). Primary feasibility outcomes included recruitment and retention rates and usability and satisfaction scores; secondary outcomes of MVPA and M-PAC constructs and tertiary outcomes of mental health and wellbeing were also assessed. Overall, feasibility of the intervention was high, with a 96% recruitment rate, 84% retention rate, high satisfaction and usability scores, and comparable website usage to similar eHealth interventions. Intervention participants trended towards improved MVPA and M-PAC constructs and outcomes of mental health and wellbeing. Findings suggest study extension to a full-scale RCT., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

Individuals with cancer are recommended to engage in regular physical activity (PA) even during cancer therapy. The aim of this study was to explore how patient-reported physician PA counseling influences their PA intention and behavior in addition to psycho-cognitive determinants derived from the theory of planned behavior (TPB). A longitudinal study during cancer treatment was conducted among N = 115 patients with breast, prostate, or colorectal cancer (M age  = 58.0, SD = 11.5; 55.7% female). The median time since diagnosis was 2 months, and 19.1% were diagnosed with metastases. Participants provided information on PA counseling by their physicians and on psycho-cognitive variables of the TPB at three measurement points. Additionally, they wore accelerometers for seven days at baseline and three months later. Nearly half of participants (48%) reported basic PA counseling and 30% reported in-depth PA counseling. Patients in poorer health and with lower education reported significantly less in-depth counseling. In addition to patient self-efficacy in performing PA, only in-depth physician PA counseling, but not basic physician counseling, predicted intention for PA four weeks later. Patients' PA three months after baseline was predicted by patients' PA at baseline and their intention for PA. Overall, the PA level at baseline was identified as the most important predictor of PA three months later. Nevertheless, physicians seem to have the ability to increase their cancer patients' intention for PA by in-depth counseling., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Introduction: Physical activity throughout pregnancy has been shown to have health benefits for the pregnant person, including reductions in the risk of preeclampsia and gestational weight gain and improvements in blood pressure regulation. Despite the benefits, many pregnant women do not meet the guidelines for physical activity throughout pregnancy. Therefore, it is important to determine what influences women's activity levels during pregnancy. This systematic review of the qualitative literature aimed to determine pregnant and postpartum women's perceptions of barriers to and enablers of physical activity, specifically during pregnancy., Methods: MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Embase were searched systematically to identify qualitative studies investigating pregnant or postpartum women's perceptions of barriers to and enablers of physical activity during pregnancy. Included studies were limited to populations of pregnant or postpartum women, the majority of whom were aged 18 to 40 years, and studies published from 1985 onward. Data quality was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme Qualitative Studies Checklist. Data were extracted using NVivo software and subsequently mapped on the COM-B framework., Results: Twenty-five qualitative studies were included in this systematic review. Sixteen themes were identified that mapped onto 6 components of the COM-B framework. Commonly reported barriers to physical activity during pregnancy included pregnancy symptoms, lack of knowledge of what constitutes safe activity, and the opinions of women's social circles. Commonly reported enablers of physical activity during pregnancy were social support and the experienced benefits, including physiologic, psychological, and social benefits., Discussion: The results of this systematic review have clinical implications for perinatal care providers, as the overall benefits of physical activity during pregnancy have been well documented in previous studies. The authors recommend clinicians aim to explore pregnant women's perspectives on physical activity during pregnancy in order to be able to address their perceived barriers to and enablers of physical activity during pregnancy., (© 2022 by the American College of Nurse-Midwives.)

Objective: Examine the feasibility and acceptability of a social identity-informed, online delivered, running and walking group program to support low-active post-secondary students' exercise behavior and well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic., Methods: A two-arm, non-blinded, parallel pilot randomized controlled trial was conducted whereby low-active post-secondary students at a Canadian university were equally randomized to an online delivered running/walking group program or an attention control condition. Primary feasibility and acceptability outcomes included program interest, study enrolment and retention, questionnaire completion, program attendance, program satisfaction, and affective exercise attitudes. Post-program interviews were conducted to ascertain participants' experiences with the program. Secondary outcomes included well-being, exercise behavior, social identity, social support, and exercise identity., Results: Ninety-two individuals were screened for eligibility, and 72 were equally randomized to the online group program or attention control condition. Recruitment exceeded the target sample size (60), study adherence and questionnaire completion were above 90%, program attendance was moderate (M = 5.03/8), self-report program satisfaction was moderate-to-high (M = 4.13/5), and there was no condition effect for affective attitudes. During interviews, participants expressed satisfaction with the program. They also discussed challenges with developing a shared sense of identity and social connection with group members via online platforms. There were small condition effects for exercise-related well-being and exercise identity and no condition effects for the remaining secondary outcomes. Social identity scores were moderate (M = 4.63/7)., Conclusions: The STRIDE program was feasible and acceptable but should be delivered and piloted in-person before a full-scale efficacy trial is conducted., Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04857918; 2021-04-20., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

There is scarcity of studies using device-based measures to examine how relationship and parenthood transitions modify 24-h movement behaviors. This study examined how the composition of 24-h movement behaviors changes during these life transitions. Young adults (n = 170, mean age 25.6 years, SD 0.6) from the Special Turku Coronary Risk Factor Intervention Project (STRIP) wore wrist-worn accelerometers for 1 week and completed questionnaire at ages 26 and 31 years. Participants were categorized by relationship status into single (16%), those transitioning from single to partnered (31%), partnered (47%), and separated (7%), and by parenthood status into non-parents (73%), new parents (19%), and parents (8%). Changes in daily movement behaviors, including sleep, sedentary behavior (SED), light physical activity (LPA), and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), were examined using compositional linear mixed models. In general, LPA and MVPA decreased relative to sleep and SED (p = 0.007). Differences emerged between LPA and MVPA in relationship and parenthood groups (p for group × time interaction 0.008 and 0.001). Those transitioning to partnership decreased MVPA by 17 min/day, while partnered and separated individuals showed no notable MVPA change but decreased LPA by 14 and 43 min/day. Single individuals and non-parents decreased LPA and MVPA in similar proportions. New parents decreased MVPA by 20 min/day, while parents increased it by 19 min/day. Becoming first-time parent and starting relationship was associated with decline of MVPA. Our results suggest the importance of considering these life transitions and providing guidance for maintaining physical activity despite changes in life situations., (© 2024 The Author(s). Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science In Sports published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

The transition to parenthood is associated with declines in moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and increases in light PA (LPA). One potential mechanism for this change in PA that occur at the onset of parenthood is housework. We examined housework load and PA levels of three cohorts of couples across 12 months recruited from Victoria, British Columbia, Canada between January 2007 and December 2011. Participants (N = 314; 102 not expecting a child, 136 expecting first-child, 76 expecting second child) completed baseline demographics and 7-day accelerometry, followed by assessments at 6 and 12 months. Hierarchical linear regression assessed the association between PA, housework, and perceptions of partner's workload. New fathers' but not new mothers' housework was positively related to their LPA at 12 months. Perceptions of partners' workload were positively related to new mothers LPA, and negatively related to new fathers MVPA at 12 months. Mediation analysis determined if perceived behavioral control accounts for the relationship between the discrepancy in housework between partners' PA. Results suggest that if a woman perceives their partner to do more housework their own PA increases, whereas for men their PA decreases. These findings highlight the importance of the division of housework on PA for both mothers and fathers.

Objective: Using a novel isotemporal substitution paradigm, this study aimed to estimate the cross-sectional associations of objectively measured sedentary behaviour and physical activity (PA) with cardiovascular risk factors among patients with SLE., Methods: This was a cross-sectional study of adult SLE patients without documented cardiovascular disease (CVD). Cardiovascular risk factors were measured, including BMI, blood pressure, fasting glucose and lipid profile. Ten-year CVD risk was estimated using the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association risk assessment tool. Time in sedentary behaviour, light PA, and moderate-vigorous PA (MVPA) was measured by accelerometry. We used three linear regression models-single-activity models, partition models, and isotemporal substitution models-to evaluate the associations of time spent at each movement intensity with each CVD risk variable., Results: There were 100 SLE patients [92% female; mean (s.d.) age 52.4 (14.4) years]. Only 11 participants adhered to current PA recommendations (⩾150 MVPA min/week in ⩾10-min bouts). In isotemporal substitution, reallocating 10 min from sedentary behaviour to MVPA was associated with lower systolic (β = -2.15 mmHg; P = 0.01) and diastolic blood pressure (β = -1.56 mmHg; P = 0.01), as well as lower estimated 10-year CVD risk (RR 0.81, 95% CI 0.70, 0.93). Time reallocation from light PA to MVPA was associated with lower diastolic blood pressure (β = -1.45 mmHg; P = 0.01) and lower 10-year CVD risk estimates (RR 0.80, 95% CI 0.69, 0.94)., Conclusion: Given that reallocating time from other movement intensities to MVPA is associated favourably with lower cardiovascular risk, PA interventions are needed to address suboptimal MVPA levels among SLE patients., (© The Author(s) 2019. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the British Society for Rheumatology. All rights reserved. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.)

Background: Pregnant women may experience physical and emotional distress. Exercise is recommended for healthy pregnant women and is beneficial for their mental and physical health. Unsupervised home-based exercise is cost-effective for pregnant women as an occasional solution for their discomfort. However, no synthesis of randomized trials on this topic has been conducted., Aims: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of unsupervised home-based exercise during pregnancy., Methods: A systematic search for randomized controlled trials was performed in electronic databases. The review extracted eligibility criteria based on unsupervised home-based exercise intervention. The quality of the included studies was performed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool 2.0. This review was registered a priori in PROSPERO (CRD42023452966)., Results: In total, seven studies were selected for systematic review. Participant adherence rates for the three reported studies varied considerably, ranging from 33% to 75%. Two studies revealed that unsupervised home-based exercise improved symptom severity in relation to long-term adherence to exercise. Two studies suggested that maternal aerobic fitness increased due to exercise. One study revealed improved sleep quality. However, none of the studies supported the positive effects of exercise on fatigue, maternal insulin sensitivity, prenatal weight gain, postnatal weight loss, birth pain, and cesarean section., Linking Evidence to Action: Unsupervised home-based exercise improves discomfort symptoms during pregnancy but requires a long intervention period. This finding suggests that the evaluation period needs to be longer to identify the effects of exercise. In addition, a theoretical-based integrity exercise plan should be considered to promote the effectiveness of unsupervised home-based exercise., (© 2024 Sigma Theta Tau International.)

Introduction: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common medical complication in pregnancy. Moderate-intensity physical activity during pregnancy can lower the risk of GDM. However, the relationship between moderate-intensity physical activity and correlated factors among pregnant people at high risk for GDM remains unknown., Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in China. Two hundred fifty-two participants completed the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire, Pregnancy Physical Activity Self-Efficacy Scale, Physical Activity Knowledge Questionnaire, Physical Activity Social Support Scale, 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale, Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, and a sociodemographic data sheet. Structural equation modeling was used to explore the direct and indirect associations between the study variables., Results: A total of 51.6% of the participants did not meet the current physical activity guidelines. Only physical activity self-efficacy was significantly correlated with moderate-intensity physical activity. Physical activity self-efficacy mediated the relationship between moderate-intensity physical activity and knowledge of physical activity, social support for physical activity, and anxiety symptoms. Furthermore, knowledge of physical activity was also associated with improved moderate-intensity physical activity mediated by reduced anxiety symptoms and increased physical activity self-efficacy., Conclusion: Our study revealed a high prevalence of not meeting current physical activity guidelines among pregnant people at high risk for GDM. Physical activity self-efficacy played an important mediating role in predicting moderate-intensity physical activity. Future studies should focus on enhancing self-efficacy to improve moderate-intensity physical activity for pregnant people at high risk for GDM., (© 2023 by the American College of Nurse‐Midwives.)

Objective: Evidence on the benefits of physical activity (PA) during cancer has caused a paradigm shift from people with cancer being advised to save energy (rest paradigm) to guidelines recommending them to engage in regular PA (activity paradigm). This study examined the rest and the activity paradigm among people with cancer based on the theory of planned behaviour (TPB)., Methods: A cross-sectional survey was completed by N = 1244 people (58% women; M = 59.95 years) with breast, prostate and colorectal cancer, including 15 items on rest and activity attitudes. To explain the intention to engage in PA, hierarchical regression analyses were calculated., Results: The two-dimensional structure of attitudes (rest and activity) was confirmed. The agreement with the activity paradigm (M = 4.11; SD = 0.78) was higher compared to the rest paradigm (M = 2.56; SD = 0.78, p < .001). The TPB was an appropriate model to explain the intention to engage in PA (R 2  = .59), showing that the activity paradigm, but not the rest paradigm, was significantly associated with participants' intention for PA., Conclusion: Results indicate that the paradigm shift has successfully reached attitudes of people with cancer. Interventions focusing on the benefits of PA rather than addressing rest cognitions promise higher effectiveness in affecting PA levels., Clinical Trial Registration Number: NCT02678832., (© 2022 The Authors. European Journal of Cancer Care published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Physical activity (PA) social-ecological model (SEM) posits the importance of several levels of influence critical for PA promotion within communities. The purpose of this study was to examine an SEM evaluation informing a county-wide active living plan in McLennan County, Texas in the United States. Mixed-methods evaluation occurred in 4 stages: (1) county policies (n = 15) were evaluated for PA promoting strategies; (2) PA resource assessments (PARAs) were conducted via Google Maps (n = 171); (3) surveys (n = 244) included the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and interpersonal and intrapersonal factors related to PA; and (4) focus groups (n = 5) were conducted with residents (n = 30), discussing barriers and facilitators to being active. Logistic regression determined significant associations between SEM factors and meeting PA recommendations. Policy scans and PARAs identified strengths and areas of improvement (eg, equitable project selection and disparities in resource quality). Residents reporting fewer barriers (OR = 0.89, P =.01), more perceived behavioral control (odds ratio [OR] = 1.38, P = .01), more social co-participation in PA (OR = 1.20, P = .03), and living in zip codes with higher mean PARA score (OR = 1.22, P = .04) were significantly more likely to meet PA recommendations (Nagelkerke R2 = 0.32). Focus groups also discussed safety and disparities in access and quality. This study suggests the utility of the SEM when evaluating and promoting community PA., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2023 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

This study identified factors that influenced physical activity (PA) participation among older adults from rural settings in Nova Scotia Canada and explored how the rural context may influence PA participation and promotion. Data were collected via individual semistructured interviews with 20 older adults (Mage = 77.5 years) from rural areas of Cape Breton and subjected to thematic analysis procedures (Braun & Clarke, 2006). Four themes representing factors that influence the prioritization of PA were identified: (1) historical context of activity, work, and productivity; (2) already busy with day-to-day activities; (3) being/staying on the go; and (4) cautionary approach. These findings suggest that PA promotion should be contextually salient, and highlight the need for a shared understanding between rural older adults and PA promoters regarding what constitutes being "physically active". Effective promotion of PA among rural older adults may require a shift away from contemporary methods of PA promotion.

Objective: Little is known regarding the social-cognitive correlates of physical activity (PA) during and after cardiac rehabilitation (CR) in a female sample. The objective of the current study was to identify distinct trajectories for task self-efficacy, barrier self-efficacy, and outcome expectations and examine their association with PA., Method: A total of 203 women with cardiovascular disease completed a survey that included the self-efficacy, outcome-expectation, and PA measures at the beginning and end of CR, and 6 and 12 months after completing CR., Results: Latent class growth analyses showed that multiple trajectories existed for task self-efficacy, barrier self-efficacy, and outcome expectations. Dual trajectory analyses showed that women in less favorable task self-efficacy, barrier self-efficacy, and outcome-expectation trajectories had a greater probability of being in an inactive PA trajectory., Conclusion/implications: Women in trajectories with higher task and barrier self-efficacy and outcome expectations are more likely to be active, whereas the opposite is true for women with lower efficacy and outcome expectancies. As such, it is critical that health-care practitioners incorporate strategies into their CR programs or professional practice after CR to increase women's confidence in engaging in PA, overcome barriers to engage in PA, and promote positive outcomes related to PA to increase their PA levels., (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2015 APA, all rights reserved.)

Objective: The purpose of this study was to apply Bandura's (1998) social-cognitive theory to understand preoperative exercise and walking behavior in a sample of individuals waiting for total joint replacement (TJR) surgery., Method: Participants (N = 78) were individuals waiting for TJR who completed measures of the social-cognitive theory, e.g., barrier efficacy, task efficacy, outcome expectancy, self-regulation, neighborhood walking environment, WOMAC-pain, WOMAC-physical function (Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index; In N. Bellamy, W. W. Buchanan, C. H. Goldsmith, J. Campbell, & L. W. Stitt, Validation study of WOMAC: A health status instrument for measuring clinically important patient relevant outcomes to antirheumatic drug therapy in patients with osteoarthritis of the hip or knee, The Journal of Rheumatology, 1988, 15, pp. 1833-1840) framed for exercise and walking., Results: Independent t tests suggested no differences (p > .05) between type of surgery (hip vs. knee), gender, or age for exercise and over half of the sample was considered inactive (55%; American Geriatrics Society, 2001). Overall, social-cognitive theory failed to explain exercise in this sample; only pain (β = -.31) explained exercise behavior. When walking behavior was considered specifically, however, task efficacy for walking (β = .55) and self-regulation (β = .24) explained 32% of behavior. social cognitive theory showed limited capability in predicting exercise in this sample but strong capability for explaining walking., Conclusion: When considering exercise before TJR surgery, our findings reflect the significance of the pain associated with advanced osteoarthritis and the negative impact on preoperative exercise behaviors. As walking was the most commonly reported type of exercise, results from this study suggest that task efficacy for walking and self-regulation may play an important role when considering interventions aimed to increase walking behavior before TJR.

Background: Physical activity is associated with reduced mortality and morbidity. Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is an effective intervention for patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD). Unfortunately, women are less likely to engage in, or sustain, regular physical activity. Objectives were to (1) describe women's guidelines-based levels of physical activity during and after CR and (2) determine the physical activity trajectories of women from entry to CR to one year after CR., Methods and Results: A prospective, longitudinal study of 203 women with CVD enrolled in a 6-month CR program. Physical activity was measured using the Godin Leisure Time Exercise Questionnaire (LSI), focusing on moderate-strenuous activity. Data were analyzed using latent class growth analysis (LCGA) and logistic regression. Mean scores on the LSI showed women to be "active" at all follow-up points. LCGA revealed a two-class model, respectively, called "inactive relapsers" and "moderately active relapsers." Predictors of the "moderately active relapsers" class were employment status and diagnosis of myocardial infarction., Conclusions: Women achieved the recommended physical activity levels by the end of CR and sustained them until one year after CR. LCGA allowed us to determine the class trajectories associated with moderate-strenuous activity and, from these, to identify implications for targeted intervention.

Purpose: Diet and physical activity changes have been shown to improve quality of life and health outcomes for prostate cancer (PC) survivors; however, few survivors make lifestyle changes. We aimed to identify PC-specific facilitators and barriers to dietary and physical activity changes and participation in survivorship-based lifestyle management programmes., Methods: A scoping review investigating facilitators and barriers of PC survivor's participation in lifestyle management programmes was conducted in June 2018. A total of 454 studies were identified, 45 studies were assessed in full, and 16 were included in the scoping review., Results: Barriers to lifestyle change included perceived lack of evidence for lifestyle guidelines, treatment side effects, perception of change as unnecessary, time pressure and age. Facilitators for lifestyle change included advice from health professionals, support systems (family and peer), diagnosis as a time for change, lifestyle as a coping strategy to manage side effects and improve well-being., Conclusions: Health professionals, peers and family have a significant role in lifestyle management for PC survivors to facilitate engagement. Specific and clear messaging of the benefits of lifestyle management is warranted. Treatment-related side effects, time pressure, current health perception and age should be considered when developing lifestyle management programmes for PC survivors., (© 2019 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Background: Many patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) fail to attend cardiac rehabilitation following acute coronary events because they lack motivation to exercise. Theory-based approaches to promote physical activity among non-participants in cardiac rehabilitation are required., Design: A randomized trial comparing physical activity levels at baseline, 6, and 12 months between a motivational counselling (MC) intervention group and a usual care (UC) control group., Method: One hundred and forty-one participants hospitalized with acute coronary syndromes not planning to attend cardiac rehabilitation were recruited at a single centre and randomized to either MC (n = 69) or UC (n = 72). The MC intervention, designed from an ecological perspective, included one face-to-face contact and eight telephone contacts with a trained physiotherapist over a 52-week period. The UC group received written information about starting a walking programme and brief physical activity advice from their attending cardiologist. Physical activity was measured by: 7-day physical activity recall interview; self-report questionnaire; and pedometer at baseline, 6, and 12 months after randomization., Results: Latent growth curve analyses, which combined all three outcome measures into a single latent construct, showed that physical activity increased more over time in the MC versus the UC group (µ(add) = 0.69, p < 0.05)., Conclusion: Patients with CAD not participating in cardiac rehabilitation receiving a theory-based motivational counselling intervention were more physically active at follow-up than those receiving usual care. This intervention may extend the reach of cardiac rehabilitation by increasing physical activity in those disinclined to participate in structured programmes.

The purpose of this research was to explore the relationship between the perceived built environment and physical activity (PA) among college students, and to determine whether race and/or sex moderate this relationship. Participants were 785 college students (435 students in Study 1 and 350 in Study 2). Students completed questionnaires assessing characteristics of their neighborhood, and were followed up 1 (Study 1) or 2 (Study 2) weeks later to measure PA levels. Seeing others in one's neighbourhood being active was found to be significantly related (p<.01) to higher levels of PA for students in both studies. In Study 2, race was found to moderate the relationship between having many places within walking distance and PA, affecting African Americans more strongly than Caucasians. Sex was not found to moderate the perceived built environment/PA relationship. It appears that certain aspects of the perceived built environment may have an effect on the level of PA in college students, with race moderating this relationship.

The Physical Activity Counseling randomized controlled trial integrated a physical activity (PA) counselor into a primary care practice to provide intensive counseling to sedentary patients following brief counseling from their regular health care provider. This article presents the voices of 15 patients, who through a series of 3 interviews, described their experience with this 3-month combined provider PA counseling intervention. Patient satisfaction was a dominant emergent theme, and the patients were particularly positive about the quality of care and educational support for lifestyle change. They favored the tailored approach and felt the strategies for overcoming PA barriers were helpful.

Female cardiac patients frequently experience greater anxiety and depression and engage in less exercise when compared with their male counterparts. This study considered whether exercise had similar effects on male and female cardiac patients' autonomic anxiety, negative affect and depression, and whether exercise behavior explained the gender difference in their affective functioning (e.g. autonomic anxiety, negative affect and depression). Eight hundred one participants completed the Hospital and Anxiety Depression Scale (HADS) and the leisure score index (LSI) of the Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire at baseline, 6 months, 12 months, and 24 months. Female cardiac patients had greater autonomic anxiety, negative affect and depression and reduced exercise when compared with male cardiac patients at all time points. Although exercise was significantly related to affective outcomes at various time points for both men and women, gender did not moderate any of the exercise/affective relationships, and exercise did not mediate any of the gender/affective relationships. Further research is needed to clarify the complex relationships between gender, exercise, and the affective functioning of cardiac patients.

Although home-based cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs have been shown to produce significant increases in exercise capacity, obtaining patient adherence to these programs has been challenging. It is therefore critical to identify key theoretical determinants of exercise during home-based CR in order to inform the development of behavioural interventions that improve adherence. The present study examined the utility of the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) in explaining exercise behaviour during home-based CR. Seventy-six patients who were receiving 6 months of home-based CR completed a TPB questionnaire at the beginning and mid-point of the program and a physical activity scale at the mid-point and end of the program. Path analyses showed that attitude and perceived behavioural control significantly predicted intention for both time intervals (baseline to 3 months, and 3 months to 6 months), whereas subjective norm only predicted intention within the 1st 3 months. Intention significantly predicted implementation intention, which, in turn, significantly predicted exercise for both time intervals. Finally, several underlying accessible beliefs were significantly related to exercise for both time intervals. Therefore, results suggest that the TPB is a potentially useful framework for understanding exercise behaviour during home-based CR.

Unlabelled: Only 30% of college students meet the recommended amount of physical activity (PA) for health benefits, and this number is lower for African American students. Moreover, the correlates of PA may vary by ethnicity., Objective: In the present study, the authors tested the utility of the theory of planned behavior for explaining PA intentions and behavior in Caucasian and African American students., Participants and Methods: Participants were 238 African American (M age = 20.05 years, SD = 2.28) and 197 Caucasian (M age = 19.50 years, SD = 2.28) students who completed a baseline theory of planned behavior questionnaire and a follow-up PA measure 1 week later., Results: Hierarchical regression analyses showed that affective (beta = .23) and instrumental (beta = .28) attitudes and perceived behavioral control (beta = .59) were significantly predictive of intention for the Caucasian students, whereas affective attitude (beta = .18) and perceived behavioral control (beta = .56) were significant for African American students. Furthermore, intention (beta = .33) was the lone significant predictor of PA for Caucasian students, whereas perceived behavioral control (beta = .23) was the significant predictor of PA for African American students., Conclusions: These data suggest that practitioners may need to consider ethnicity when developing PA interventions for college students based on the theory of planned behavior.

Increased research on passion in exercise calls for direct examination of possible moderating variables, such as culture and gender, that could influence the interpretation of the research results. This study using a nation by gender between-participants design, examined differences in obsessive- and harmonious passion in Spanish and Hungarian physically active individuals. Participants (n = 1002) completed the Passion Scale, reported their gender, age and weekly hours of physical activity. Multivariate analysis of covariance revealed that the experiencing of physical activity-related obsessive- and harmonious passion differed between the 2 countries and Hungarian women scored significantly higher on harmonious and obsessive passion than Spanish women. However, Hungarian men only scored significantly higher on obsessive passion, but not harmonious passion compared to Spanish men. These results suggest that gender and cultural differences are likely to affect the interpretation and generalisation of research on passion and exercise., (© 2018 International Union of Psychological Science.)

Objective: The purpose of this study was to understand the exercise levels, preferences and interests of prostate cancer survivors in Canada., Methods: An electronic survey was administered via a prostate cancer-specific website and assessed self-reported exercise levels, exercise preferences and interests, exercise barriers and facilitators to exercise., Results: Based on 103 participants, the majority (75.7%) of prostate cancer survivors did not meet both aerobic and resistance exercise guidelines, despite an interest in exercise. Strongest exercise preferences were shown for resistance exercise, walking, flexibility and bicycling and for performing exercise from a community-based gym or from home. Significant differences in exercise interests and facilitators were found between individuals who were meeting exercise guidelines compared to those who were not., Conclusion: The majority of Canadian prostate cancer survivors are insufficiently active. Exercise preferences and facilitators appear to be influenced by current exercise levels. Resistance and aerobic exercise should be considered when programming exercise for prostate cancer survivors., (© 2019 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Background: The Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for Children and Youth ("Guidelines") not only pioneered the notion of an integrated movement continuum from sleep to vigorous-intensity physical activity but also introduced a new branded Guideline visual identity., Objectives: This study evaluated youths' (N = 46) attention to and thoughts about the Guidelines and the brand., Design: A cross-sectional between-participants randomized intervention design was used., Sample: Canadian youth between 10 and 17 years of age comprised the study sample., Interventions: Participants were randomly assigned to view either branded Guidelines (n = 26) or unbranded Guidelines (n = 20). Youths' eye-movements (e.g., dwell time, fixation count) were recorded during Guideline viewing. Participants completed a follow-up survey assessing brand perceptions and Guideline cognitions., Results: The branded Guidelines neither drew greater overall attention nor led to more positive brand perceptions or Guideline cognitions compared to the unbranded Guidelines., Conclusions: Exploratory analyses provide valuable, yet preliminary insight into how branding and Guideline content may shape how Guidelines are perceived and acted upon. These findings inform an agenda for future health education resources., (© 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Most implementation frameworks note that a central support unit (CSU) is key to successful implementation and scale-up of evidence-based interventions (EBIs). However, few studies investigated core functions of CSUs-such as capacity building-to better understand their essential role in implementing EBIs at scale. Therefore, the aims of our study are to (1) describe the role that a CSU plays to build capacity in delivery partner organisations, to enable implementation and scale-up of a health-promoting intervention (Choose to Move [CTM]) for older adults, and (2) identify elements within capacity-building strategies deemed essential to effectively implement CTM in diverse community contexts. CTM is a flexible, scalable, community-based health-promoting physical activity (PA) and social connectedness intervention for older adults. In 2018-2020, eight health and social service societies, rural or remote municipalities or community-based organisations delivered 22 CTM programmes that served 322 older adults. We conducted in-depth interviews with delivery partners (n = 23), and a focus group with the central support system (n = 4). CSU provided a sounding board to organisations to create buy-in (adoption) and plan ahead. Essential elements within capacity-building strategies included: a support unit champion, enhanced delivery partner skills, self-efficacy and confidence; interactive assistance to answer questions and clarify materials. There is a key role for capacity-building under the stewardship of the CSU to promote implementation success. Investigating specific elements within capacity-building strategies that drive implementation success continues to be a relevant question for implementation science researchers, that deserves further attention., (© 2022 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Physical activity (PA) is important for enhancing and sustaining people's health and well-being. Although a number of efficacious PA interventions have been developed, few have been translated from research into practice. Consequently, the knowledge-to-practice gap continues to grow, leaving many individuals unable to access evidence-based PA opportunities. This gap may be particularly relevant for those who grapple with poor health due to intrapersonal, interpersonal, cultural and system-level barriers that limit their access to evidence-based PA opportunities. Implementation efforts designed to bring research into real-world settings may bridge the knowledge-to-practice gap. Yet, cultivating quality partnerships and ensuring effectiveness, methodological rigour and scalability in real-world settings can be difficult. Furthermore, researchers seldom publish examples of how they addressed these challenges and translated their evidence-based PA opportunities into practice. Herein, we describe three cases of successful PA implementation among diverse populations: (a) individuals affected by cancer, (b) adults living with prediabetes, and (c) children from under-resourced communities. Commonalities across cases include guiding theories and frameworks, the strategies to facilitate and maintain partnerships, and scalability and sustainability plans. Practical tips and recommendations are provided to spur research and translation efforts that consider implementation from the outset, ultimately ensuring that people receive the benefits PA can confer., (© 2021 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare physical activity (PA) in a group of patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) versus healthy controls and to determine whether the mobility of these patients is affected by disease activity., Methods: A group of 52 patients with PsA and 53 controls were included in this case-control study. PA was assessed by accelerometry in both groups and additionally with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) in patients with PsA. Multiple regression analysis was used to compare PA between groups and to determine the relationship between PA and PsA features, including disease activity, as assessed by the 28-joint Disease Activity Score (DAS28) and the Disease Activity Index for Psoriatic Arthritis (DAPSA) score. In a group of 36 patients, a test-retest study was carried out after 6 months., Results: The time engaged in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) per day, as evaluated by accelerometry, and adjusted by confounders, proved similar in patients with PsA and controls. In patients with PsA, disease activity was inversely related to PA as assessed either by IPAQ or accelerometry. When PA was compared in patients with PsA between the 2 visits, a significant difference in the amount of time doing MVPA was found (42 ± 33 versus 30 ± 22 minutes/day; P = 0.004). Interestingly, in the test-retest study, variations in disease activity over time based on DAPSA scores (r = -0.49, P = 0.002) and DAS28 using the C-reactive protein level (r = -0.4, P = 0.017) were inversely correlated with changes in PA, as determined by accelerometry., Conclusion: Patients with PsA show levels of PA like healthy controls. In patients with PsA, disease activity and PA are inversely correlated and the evaluation of PA by accelerometry is sensitive to changes in disease activity., (© 2020, American College of Rheumatology.)

Objectives: The goal of this study was to compare the odds of meeting physical activity (PA) guidelines among adults living in rural and urban areas of Canada., Methods: Data from the 2017 cycle of the Canadian Community Health Survey were analyzed using binomial logistic regression with a sample of 47,266 adults representing a survey-weighted total of 25,669,018. The odds of meeting PA guidelines were determined based on self-reported moderate-to-vigorous PA (<150 min per week or ≥150 min per week). Communities were categorized as urban or rural based on population size and density. Individual-level correlates included in the model were self-identified sex, age, body mass index, highest level of education, household income, perceived health, and sense of belonging to community., Results: Approximately 56.6% of rural and 59.3% of urban adults reported meeting recommended PA levels when location was examined as a sole predictor. The best-fit model adjusted for all individual-level factors showed a significant sex × location interaction. Males in rural communities were more likely to report meeting PA guidelines (odds = 0.90 or 47.4%) than males in urban areas (odds = 0.78 or 43.8%), whereas females living in rural communities (odds = 0.58 or 36.7%) were less likely to report meeting PA guidelines than females in urban areas (odds = 0.65 or 39.4%)., Conclusion: The association between rural-urban residence and meeting PA guidelines appears to be contingent on self-identified sex differences. Future work should explore how gender- and location-related variables interact to influence self-reported PA engagement.

Objective: This three-armed randomized controlled feasibility trial tested the acceptability and acute effects of aerobic exercise and technology-guided mindfulness training (relative to standalone interventions) on cancer-related fatigue among breast cancer survivors (BCS)., Methods: BCS recruited from Central Illinois completed pre- and post-testing using established measures and were randomized to one of three groups (combined aerobic exercise with guided-mindfulness relaxation, aerobic exercise only, and relaxation only), conducted in three 90 min sessions over the course of 7 days in a fitness room and research office on a university campus., Results: We enrolled 40 BCS (M age = 57.33 ± 8.75), M BMI = 27.38 ± 5.27, M fatigue = 4.56 ± 1.81 as measured by the Piper Fatigue Scale. More favorable post-intervention evaluations were reported by the combined group, compared to aerobic exercise or relaxation only (p < 0.05). Reductions in fatigue favoring the combined group (p = 0.05) showed a modest effect size (Cohen's d = 0.91) compared to aerobic exercise only., Conclusions: These findings provide preliminary evidence for the feasibility of combining evidence-based techniques to address fatigue among BCS. The combined approach, incorporating mobile health technology, presents an efficacious and well-received design. If replicated in longer trials, the approach could provide a promising opportunity to deliver broad-reaching interventions for improved outcomes in BCS. Preregistered-ClinicalTrials NCT03702712., (© 2020 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Perceptions of fitness trainers' need-supportive and need-thwarting behaviors have been shown to impact exercisers' psychological need satisfaction and frustration. Currently, it is unknown whether an agreement or disagreement between exercisers' and fitness trainers' reported perceptions of these behaviors leads to the satisfaction and/or frustration of psychological needs. Based on self-determination theory, the present study examined the effect of congruency between fitness trainers' and exercisers' perceptions of need-supportive and need-thwarting interpersonal behaviors on basic psychological need satisfaction and frustration. A sample of 130 fitness trainers (43 females; M age  = 31.58 ± 7.65) and a total of 640 gym exercisers (350 females; M age  = 34.23 ± 11.59) participated in this study. Findings suggested that the majority of fitness trainers tended to over-report their use of need-supportive behavior and under-report their need-thwarting behaviors. Results showed that when there was congruency between fitness trainers' reported use and exercisers' perception of interpersonal behaviors, basic need satisfaction tended to increase. This effect was greater for exercisers that rated their respective fitness trainer high on relatedness support. Fitness trainers should be self-aware of their interpersonal behaviors when engaging with exercisers and interventions based on self-determination theory could serve as a promising avenue to improve the quality of exercisers' experience., (© 2020 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

This study uses primary data from a community-based random sample of adults in historically lower-income African American (or Black) neighborhoods in Atlanta, Georgia (N = 352). The aim was to investigate whether there are race differences in perceived neighborhood conditions/amenities, and the potential conditional effect of race on the relationship between the perceived built environment and physical limitations. Findings indicate significant race differences in the perceived built environment and that the relationship between the perceived built environment and physical limitations is conditioned by race, whereby Whites experience greater physical health benefits from more neighborhood conditions/amenities than African Americans.

Background: Regular physical activity is important for patients with established coronary heart disease as it favorably influences their coronary risk profile. General self-efficacy is a powerful predictor of health behavior change that involves increases in physical activity levels. Few studies have simultaneously measured physical activity and self-efficacy during early recovery after a first acute myocardial infarction (AMI)., Purpose: The aims of this study were to assess changes in objectively measured physical activity levels at 2 weeks (T2) and 6 weeks (T3) and self-reported cardiac self-efficacy at hospital discharge (T1) and at T2 and T3 in patients recovering from AMI., Methods: A repeated-measures design was used to recruit a purposive sample of patients from a single center in Jordan who were diagnosed with first AMI and who did not have access to cardiac rehabilitation. A body-worn activity monitor (activPAL) was used to objectively measure free-living physical activity levels for 7 consecutive days at two time points (T2 and T3). An Arabic version of the cardiac self-efficacy scale was administered at T1, T2, and T3. Paired t tests and analysis of variance were used to examine differences in physical activity levels and cardiac self-efficacy scores, respectively., Results: A sample of 100 participants was recruited, of which 62% were male. The mean age of the sample was 54.5 ± 9.9 years. No statistically significant difference in physical activity levels was measured at 2 weeks (T2) and 6 weeks (T3). Cardiac self-efficacy scores improved significantly between T1, T2, and T3 across subscales and global cardiac self-efficacy., Conclusions/implications for Practice: Participants recovering from AMI in Jordan did not increase their physical activity levels during the early recovery phase, although cardiac self-efficacy scores improved. This may be because the increase in cardiac self-efficacy was not matched by the practical skills and knowledge required to translate this positive psychological construct into behavioral change. This study provides a first step toward understanding the complex relationship between cardiac self-efficacy and physical activity in this population. The authors hope that these findings support the design of culturally appropriate interventions to increase physical activity levels in this population., (Copyright © 2020 The Authors. Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.)

Objective: The present study aimed to examine the bright and dark sides of motivation, based on self-determination theory, as predictors of enjoyment, intention to continue exercising, and exercise persistence. In addition, we analyzed the mediation role of each variable and tested the model invariance between male and female exercisers., Methods: A total of 575 gym exercisers (female = 230) aged between 18 and 65 years (M = 34.07; SD = 11.47) participated in this study. All participants had at least 6 months of regular exercise practice; exercise frequency of the participants ranged from 2 to 7 sessions per week (M = 3.52; SD = 1.28) and training sessions lasted approximately 30 and 120 minutes (M = 61.54; SD = 17.64). Participants completed a multisection questionnaire assessing interpersonal behaviors, basic psychological needs satisfaction and frustration, behavioral regulations, enjoyment, and intentions to continue exercising. Exercise persistence was assessed 6 months after initial assessment using gym computer system attendance records. Several analyses, namely, confirmatory factor analysis, structural equation modeling, serial mediation analysis, and structural invariance testing, were performed to increase theoretical and empirical knowledge., Results: Positive associations were observed among the bright side of motivation, enjoyment, intention to continue exercising, and persistence. On the other hand, the dark side of motivation was negatively associated with the bright side constructs, enjoyment, intention, and exercise persistence. Both measurement [χ 2 (370) = 1496.708, χ 2 /df = 4.05; B-S P < .001, CFI = 0.907, TLI = 0.901, SRMR = 0.056, RMSEA = 0.073 (CI 90% = 0.063, 0.083)] and structural models [χ 2 (393) = 2484.994, χ 2 /df = 6.323; B-S P < .001, CFI = 0.908, TLI = 0.900, SRMR = 0.075, RMSEA = 0.071 (CI 90% = 0.067, 0.075)] displayed acceptable fit to the data. The results also showed that basic psychological needs satisfaction, autonomous motivation, enjoyment, and intention to continue exercising were significant mediators. However, enjoyment had the highest effect on exercise persistence. In addition, structural model invariance was confirmed between male and female exercisers., Conclusion: Motivational determinants have implications for predicting emotional, cognitive, and behavior-related outcomes. Individuals should perceive exercise instructors as supportive and exercising as a fun activity to endorse long-term exercise persistence., (© 2019 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Aim: The quality of exercise motivations may undermine body image and eating habits/behaviours. This systematic review summarizes the state of the scientific evidence on the effects of exercise motivations on body image and eating habits/behaviours., Methods: This review was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42019129904). Three electronic databases (PubMed, PsycINFO, SportDiscus) were searched using combinations of terms concerning: (a) the population of interest (adults, exercisers), (b) the independent variables (eg, exercise autonomous motivations) and (c) the outcomes of interest (eg, body image, eating habits). No study design restrictions were implemented. To be included, empirical studies had to be published up to June 2019, in English, in peer-reviewed journals/theses and analyse associations between exercise motivations and body image or eating habits/behaviours. Study quality was assessed using the EPHPP Quality Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies. Two authors performed all steps. Outcome data were combined narratively., Results: Of 168 records, 26 were included in this review: 22 analysing links between exercise motivations and body image and 11 exploring links between exercise motivations and eating habits/behaviours. Autonomous motivations (eg, for pleasure, health, wellbeing) and health-focused exercise were associated with positive body image and healthy eating habits/behaviours, whereas exercising for appearance-related and other controlled reasons was inversely related to both outcomes., Conclusions: Better-quality exercise motivations (ie, autonomous) seem to result in healthier body image and eating outcomes. Further research is still recommended to explore these associations in more depth. Nevertheless, these findings suggest that future interventions should promote individuals' autonomy, competence and relatedness to foster autonomous motivations., (© 2019 Dietitians Association of Australia.)

Objective: This secondary analysis of the ABLE Trial (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03148886) aimed to assess physical activity preferences before and after a 6-month physical activity intervention for women recently diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer and to investigate demographic and clinical correlates of these preferences., Methods: Forty-nine patients participated in the ABLE Trial, a single-arm, unsupervised 6-month physical activity intervention with activity trackers. At baseline and 6 months, physical activity preferences, physical activity level, clinical variables, demographics and social vulnerability were assessed., Results: At baseline, 49 participants were included, among whom 85% were interested in receiving physical activity counselling and 89% were interested in following a physical activity programme designed for metastatic breast cancer. At the end of the study, more participants preferred practising in a community fitness centre (66%) rather than at home (19% vs. 44% at baseline, p = .03). A higher social vulnerability score and not being treated by chemotherapy at baseline were significantly associated with lower desire to receive physical activity counselling (p = .01 and p = .04 respectively)., Conclusions: This study will help design future studies within patients with metastatic breast cancer in accordance with their preferences. Designing tailored physical activity interventions according to the participant's preferences may be one key to success for adherence., (© 2019 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Background: Physical activity has numerous associated benefits for cancer survivors. Compared with their urban counterparts, rural Australians experience a health disadvantage, including poorer survival rate after diagnosis of cancer., Objective: The aims of this study were to test the effectiveness of an online 12-week walking intervention designed for cancer survivors and explore region-specific psychological predictors of behavior change., Methods: This was a quasi-randomized controlled trial of an online resource designed according to Social Cognitive Theory and Self-determination Theory, based on individualized goal setting. Measures of habitual walking, motivation, and self-efficacy were taken at baseline, postintervention, and 3-month follow-up in an intervention group (n = 46) and active control group (n = 45). The control group was provided a pedometer but did not have access to the online program., Results: An increase in steps/day at 12 weeks was observed in both groups, with a larger increase in the intervention group; these increases were not sustained at the 3-month follow-up. Psychological predictors of maintained change in steps per day (motivation, barrier self-efficacy, and relapse self-efficacy) did not differ between metropolitan and rural participants. Changes in steps per day among intervention participants were predicted by changes in relapse self-efficacy and barrier self-efficacy., Conclusions: The intervention was successful in increasing physical activity postintervention; however, changes were not maintained at follow-up. There were no region-specific predictors of engagement in the intervention., Implications for Practice: Nurses are seamlessly positioned to promote health interventions like walking. Nurses should reframe physical activity with patients so that relapse is seen as common and possibly inevitable when adopting a regular physical activity habit.

Purpose: To describe and compare the sociodemographic and lifestyle characteristics of urban and rural residents in Atlantic Canada., Methods: Cross-sectional analyses of baseline data from the Atlantic Partnership for Tomorrow's Health cohort were conducted. Specifically, 17,054 adults (35-69 years) who provided sociodemographic characteristics, measures of obesity, and a record of chronic disease and health behaviors were included in the analyses. Multiple linear regression and logistic regression models were used to calculate the multivariable-adjusted beta coefficients (β), odds ratios (OR), and related 95% confidence intervals (CI)., Findings: After adjusting for age, sex, and province, when compared to urban participants, rural residents were significantly more likely to: be classified as very active (OR: 1.19, CI: 1.11-1.27), be obese (OR: 1.13, 1.05-1.21), to present with abdominal obesity (OR: 1.08, CI: 1.01-1.15), and have a higher body fat percentage (β: 0.40, CI: 0.12-0.68) and fat mass index (β: 0.32, CI: 0.19-0.46). Rural residents were significantly less likely to be regular or habitual drinkers (OR: 0.83, CI: 0.78-0.89). Significant differences remained after further adjustment for confounding sociodemographic, lifestyle, and health characteristics. No significant differences in smoking behavior, fruit and vegetable intake, multimorbidity, or waist circumference were found., Conclusions: As expected, obesity prevalence was higher in rural Atlantic Canadians. In contrast to much of the existing literature, we found that rural participants were more likely to report higher levels of total physical activity and lower alcohol consumption. Findings suggest that novel obesity prevention strategies may be needed for rural populations., (© 2019 National Rural Health Association.)

Motivation plays an important role when it comes to regular physical exercise. Hence, low levels of intentions to continue exercising in the future may ultimately lead to higher rates of exercise dropout. The first objective of the present research was to test a theoretical model considering the dark side of motivational determinants on intentions towards exercising in the future. The second objective consisted in comparing groups with different characteristics, as a way to identify individuals with weaker intention, which is believed to be an indicator of a higher dropout risk. In total, 544 (294 female; 250 male) gym exercisers aged between 18 and 58 years (M = 35.00; SD = 11.57) partook in the present research. Participants were engaged in fitness group classes (n = 273) or in cardio/resistance workouts (n = 271), and their exercise experience ranged from 3 to 120 months (M = 47.41; SD = 7.54). Results showed that the measurement and the structural model had an excellent fit. In addition, the structural model was invariant between gender, fitness activities, and exercise experience. Each group displayed different explained variance in intention to continue exercising. Overall, male, young adults and more experienced exercisers had stronger intentions towards exercising. Fitness instructors should be aware of their own thwarting behaviors, especially when interacting with female, young and less experienced exercisers, since they have weaker intentions to exercise in the future, possibly representing an increased risk of withdrawal., (© 2019 Scandinavian Psychological Associations and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

The objective of this study was to examine, across 22 countries, the association between community size and individual sport, team sport, and exercise participation. Hierarchal non-linear Bernoulli modeling is used to examine the association between community size (100 000-10 000; <10 000) and (a) individual sport, (b) team sport, and (c) exercise participation. After controlling for country-level clustering and demographic variables, those residing a community with between 100 000 and 10 000 residents are more likely to participate in individual sport [odds ratio ( OR) = 1.14; 95% confidence interval ( CI) = 1.05-1.23] while residing in a community with less than 10 000 residents is unrelated ( OR = 1.06; 95% CI = 0.96-1.19). Those residing in communities with between 100 000 and 10 000 residents were more likely to participate in team sport ( OR = 1.21; 95% CI = 1.01-1.45) while residing in a community with less than 10 000 residents is unrelated ( OR = 1.02; 95% CI = 0.88-1.18). Residing in a community with between 100 000 and 10 000 residents is unrelated to exercise participation ( OR = 0.97; 95% CI = 0.89-1.7), while residing in a community with less than 10 000 residents is negatively related to exercise participation ( OR = 0.86; 95% CI = 0.79-0.93). These findings provide novel evidence that communities between 100 000 and 10 000 residents are related to increased sport participation, particularly team sport participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: While evidence consistently demonstrates that physical activity is beneficial to mental health, it remains relatively unknown how physical activity benefits mental health, and which factors influence the effect of physical activity on mental health. This understanding could vastly increase our capacity to design, recommend, and prescribe physical activity in more optimal ways. The purpose of this study was to systematically review and synthesise evidence of all mediators and moderators of the relationship between physical activity and mental health. Methods: Systematic searches of four databases (i.e., Scopus, PsycINFO, PubMed, and SPORTDiscus) identified 11,633 initial studies. Empirical studies that quantitatively assessed physical activity, or conducted a physical activity intervention, measured a mental health outcome, and tested one or more mediator or moderator of the relationship between physical activity and mental health were included. A total of 247 met the inclusion criteria; 173 studies examined mediation and 82 examined moderation. Results: Results of the best-evidence synthesis revealed strong evidence for 12 mediators including affect, mental health and wellbeing, self-esteem, self-efficacy, physical self-worth, body image satisfaction, resilience, social support, social connection, physical health, pain, and fatigue. Moderate evidence was identified for a further 15 mediators and eight moderators. Conclusions: Findings should inform the design of future physical activity interventions to ensure optimal effects on mental health related outcomes. Additionally, if health professionals were to take these mediators and moderators into consideration when prescribing or recommending physical activity, physical activity would likely have a greater impact on population mental health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: The human gut microbiome is a complex ecosystem of microorganisms that can influence our health and exercise habits. On the other hand, physical exercise can also impact our microbiome, affecting our health. Our narrative review examines the bidirectional relationship between physical activity and the gut microbiome, as well as the potential for targeted probiotic regimens to enhance sports performance. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive literature review to select articles published up till January 2024 on the topics of physical exercise, sports, probiotics, and gut microbiota from major scientific databases, incorporating over 100 studies. Results: We found that the impact of physical activity on the gut microbiome varies with the type and intensity of exercise. Moderate exercise promotes a healthy immune system, while high-intensity exercise for a long duration can cause a leaky gut and consequent systemic inflammation, which may disrupt the microbial balance. Combining aerobic and resistance training significantly affects bacterial diversity, linked to a lower prevalence of chronic metabolic disorders. Furthermore, exercise enhances gut microbiome diversity, increases SCFA production, improves nutrient utilization, and modulates neural and hormonal pathways, improving gut barrier integrity. Our findings also showed probiotic supplementation is associated with decreased inflammation, enhanced sports performance, and fewer gastrointestinal disturbances, suggesting that the relationship between the gut microbiome and physical activity is mutually influential. Conclusions: The bidirectional relationship between physical activity and the gut microbiome is exemplified by how exercise can promote beneficial bacteria while a healthy gut microbiome can potentially enhance exercise ability through various mechanisms. These findings underscore the importance of adding potential tailored exercise regimens and probiotic supplementation that consider individual microbiome profiles into exercise programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical activity identity represents an important determinant of sustained physical activity behavior. The purpose of this investigation was to examine whether intention, behavioral regulation, and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) behavior explain significant variation in physical activity identity across time. Using a repeated measures observational design, lower-active adults new or returning to physical activity participation (N = 66) completed measures of study variables every three weeks over the course of a nine-week period (four assessments total). Based on the results of mixed-effects regression modelling, there was a small, non-significant increase in physical activity identity across time (b = 0.07, p = 0.13). Intention, MVPA, and behavioral regulation mostly had significant (ps < 0.05) bivariate correlations with physical activity identity at the same time point of assessment. Behavioral regulation explained significant variation in physical activity identity across time (b = 0.26, p < 0.0001), but intention and MVPA were non-significant (ps > 0.05) after including a random intercept and controlling for behavioral regulation. Identity was resistant to change among new physical activity initiates in this study and longer time frames of assessment are needed (e.g., six months). Behavioral regulation should be examined as a determinant of physical activity identity in future investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Previous research reported that distraction strategies (e.g., music, podcast) result in more positive exercise experiences compared to no strategy or association (internal attention) strategies. Mindfulness is considered an associative strategy that also includes awareness with acceptance and non-judgement. Initial evidence suggests mindful exercise is similar in affective experience to distracted exercise. Whether these results for mindful associative attention hold at a controlled higher intensity is not clear. Therefore, this study tested if a guided mindful exercise condition differed from a podcast (distraction) exercise condition on affective and motivational responses at a controlled moderately high exercise intensity. Method: An inactive female sample (n = 30) participated in a within-subjects crossover design consisting of a baseline and counterbalanced mindful and podcast 20-min continuous walking exercise conditions 1 week apart. Affect (in-task and post-task) and motivational responses were recorded. An interview to gather in-depth experiential responses was conducted after the final session. Results: Experimental manipulation was supported with significantly higher (p < 0.001) state mindfulness and internal focus in the mindful compared to the podcast condition. No other differences (p > 0.05) emerged across the two conditions on any affect or cognitive outcomes. However, interviews revealed some aversive experiences to mindfulness condition by a third of the sample. Those high on trait intrinsic motivation experienced higher state intrinsic motivation, but only in the mindfulness condition. Conclusions: Results help guide how and for whom guided mindfulness can be used to support positive exercise experiences. Those who do not appreciate the sensations of exercise experience may not benefit from an acute mindful exercise experience. Preregistration: This study is not preregistered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Health and exercise technology may promote a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy. The objective of this cross-sectional study was to understand and involve the perspective of pregnant women as users in the design of a framework for future e-health and exercise interventions during pregnancy. Pregnant women replied to a questionnaire aimed at understanding their physical activity patterns, needs, and preferences regarding the use of mobile applications (apps). The main results showed that one-third of the women did not practice any type of exercise during pregnancy. Women preferred to exercise in a gym, outdoors, or at home. The majority already had or were currently using a fitness app, but never used any pregnancy-specific app. Most women agreed that it was important to have a specific app for pregnancy to improve knowledge about recommendations on lifestyle, have direct contact with health and exercise professionals, have social interaction with other mothers, and have guidance on preparation for childbirth and postpartum recovery. Understanding and involving the perspective of pregnant women as users will allow researchers to improve the design of a pregnancy-specific app and future e-health and exercise interventions during pregnancy. These preliminary results will lead to the development of the "active pregnancy app" focused on the promotion of an active and healthy lifestyle during pregnancy and postpartum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Public opinion on engaging in vigorous activity during pregnancy remains divided. While numerous examples exist of pregnant women competing at high levels in sports, concerns persist regarding potential adverse effects on maternal and foetal health. CrossFit, known for fostering community and social connection, often remains a continued practice for female athletes during pregnancy, despite its association with high-intensity exercise, Olympic weightlifting, and dynamic movements. This article aims to synthesise current evidence-based information on CrossFit training during pregnancy, objectively outline potential risks, and provide practical recommendations. A narrative review was conducted, sourcing data from PubMed, Scopus, and Semantic Scholar. Articles were categorised into relevant sections: exercise during pregnancy, high-intensity exercise, resistance training, injuries in CrossFit, and practical applications. In the absence of studies directly assessing CrossFit's impact on pregnant women, available sources allow us to endorse this form of exercise as safe and beneficial for both maternal and foetal health. Certain exercises, such as jumping and burpees, should be adapted to the specific trimester, while others might be best avoided (such as box jumps and bar muscle-ups). Nonetheless, adherence to professional guidance and medical directives is crucial. The recommendations herein are intended for healthy, physically active pregnant women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study tested the effectiveness of individual exercise and sport counseling in a nonclinical setting. The COunseling based on Motives and goals in Exercise and sporT (COMET) approach focuses on individual motives and goals and aims to identify suitable activities. Participants experience different exercise and sport activities and reflect on them with a counselor, who applies motivational interviewing. A stratified randomized controlled design with 129 people was used. The intervention group took part in a counseling event, which included feedback on motives and goals, trial exercise and sport sessions, and structured reflection. Four weeks later, members of the group got a telephone booster. The control group received minimal intervention as written information. Results show that the counseling promoted motivational competence (η2 = .16), physical activity-specific self-control (η2 = .08), and the weekly volume of exercise and sport (η2 = .15), whereas it did not influence self-concordance. Further studies can investigate whether the COMET approach is also effective in other settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]