A strength training program for primary care patients, central Pennsylvania, 2012.

Area of Science:

• Exercise science
• Primary care medicine
• Public health interventions

Background:

• Primary care providers can promote strength training as "Exercise as Medicine."
• Limited research exists on primary care patient interest in these programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess primary care patient interest in strength training and weight control programs.
• To identify factors associated with interest in strength training programs.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional survey of 414 primary care patients in central Pennsylvania.
• Assessed interest in free, group-based strength training and weight control programs.
• Collected data on demographics, medical history, and quality of life.

Main Results:

• 55.3% of patients were interested in strength training versus 45.4% in weight control.
• Patients reporting more days of poor physical health showed higher interest in strength training (72.8%).
• Poorer physical health was associated with 2.7 times greater odds of interest in strength training.

Conclusions:

• Primary care practices should consider offering or referring patients to community-based strength training programs.
• High patient interest suggests these programs are a viable option for primary care.
• Screening and referral of individuals with poorer physical health may maximize program benefits.