Designing physical activity interventions for vulnerable populations.

Community-based interventions to promote sustained increases in physical activity have met with limited success. This is particularly the case where regular physical activity is challenged by social and environmental barriers, such as among cancer survivors in rural regions. To address this disparity, physical activity promotion in this population group must address risk conditions such as social isolation, poor access to services and fewer transport options through a focus on self-management and self-regulation. We describe a computer-delivered, pedometer-driven walking intervention that uses an electronic 'diary' where participants log daily steps and perceived effort during exercise. These records are used to individualize weekly step goals to maintain motivation, thereby increasing the likelihood of sustained behavior change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]