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Published on: March 7, 2019
Physical activity intervention in an academic setting: focus group results
Rachel A Prosser1, Anne C Thomas, Cynthia S Darling-Fisher
1University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
Summary
Workplace physical activity programs are viewed positively if they do not impede work duties or supervisor needs. Employee support is crucial for successful implementation of these initiatives.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Behavioral Science
- Public Health
Background:
- Increasing physical activity is crucial for employee well-being and productivity.
- Workplace interventions are a key strategy for promoting health behaviors.
- Understanding employee perceptions is vital for designing effective health programs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore staff and faculty beliefs and attitudes towards workplace physical activity.
- To inform the design of a pilot program for increasing physical activity in an academic setting.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative focus groups were conducted with academic staff and faculty.
- The Theory of Planned Behavior guided the exploratory questions.
- Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes from participant responses.
Main Results:
- Participants perceived workplace physical activity as beneficial for increasing free time at home.
- Concerns were raised about potential conflicts with work time and supervisory demands.
- Variations in perceived likelihood of participation were observed between staff and faculty.
Conclusions:
- Employee attitudes towards workplace physical activity are influenced by perceived impacts on work and personal time.
- Gaining support from all employees is essential for the successful implementation of workplace physical activity programs.
- Future interventions should address potential barriers and tailor approaches for different employee groups.
