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Published on: March 7, 2019
Physical activity preferences and type 2 diabetes: exploring demographic, cognitive, and behavioral differences
Cynthia C Forbes1, Ronald C Plotnikoff1,2,3, Kerry S Courneya3
1The Centre for Health Promotion Studies, School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada (Ms Forbes, Dr Plotnikoff)
Purpose:
The purpose of this study was to examine physical activity counseling and program preferences in a sample of adults with type 2 diabetes. Specifically, the objectives were to determine physical activity preferences (objective 1), and whether there were any significant differences between age and/or sex groups for these preferences (objective 1a). A subsidiary objective was to explore potential associations of key social-cognitive constructs (ie, self-efficacy and social support) with physical activity preferences (objective 2).
Methods:
This exploratory study consisted of a quantitative, secondary analysis of survey data from a national sample of adults with type 2 diabetes (N = 244). A qualitative follow-up employing telephone interviews was conducted with 14 individuals.
Results:
Consistent with hypotheses, walking was the most preferred physical activity behavior and there was a preference for engaging in physical activity with others. There were significant (P values < .05) differences in counseling and program preferences between demographic (age and sex), and physical activity cognitive scores. For example, a significantly (P < .05) higher physical activity intensity preference was found in men and younger participants.
Conclusions:
Tailoring interventions and physical activity programs to the specific preferences of individuals is an important component for health professionals and researchers in facilitating this behavior.
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