Outcomes of an exercise program for older women recruited through primary care

This study reports the social cognitive, health status, and health service use outcomes of an exercise intervention among women over 50 years of age.

A random sample of patients was drawn from two primary care centers that serve a predominantly low-income and African American population. After provider screen, 412 women were eligible and invited to participate in the study. Of these, 123 participated and 1-year follow-up data are available for 72 participants.

Participants were more likely to be African American and had a higher average body weight than nonparticipants. Perceived health was the only variable that differed by adherence group at baseline. At 1 year, differences were apparent for body weight, body mass index, hip and waist circumference, triceps skinfold, and exercise self-esteem. The no-adherence group got worse, whereas the moderate adherence group improved.

These data suggest that even suboptimal adherence to moderate-intensity exercise can yield health benefits