Applying Socioecological Model to Improve Women's Physical Activity: A Randomized Control Trial

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Promotion
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Sedentary lifestyles are a significant risk factor for numerous diseases, particularly noncommunicable diseases.
• Physical inactivity represents a major modifiable risk factor contributing to global health challenges.
• Addressing sedentary behavior is crucial for preventing chronic diseases and improving overall population health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a socioecological model-based intervention in enhancing physical activity among women.
• To investigate the impact of multi-level interventions on women's engagement in physical activity.
• To promote healthier lifestyles and reduce sedentary behavior in a specific urban population.

Main Methods:

• A randomized, double-blinded, controlled study involving 360 women in Kerman, Iran.
• Intervention designed across personal, social, organizational, and political levels based on the socioecological model.
• Data collected using a researcher-developed questionnaire and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in physical activity or support levels were observed between groups before the intervention.
• Post-intervention, significant improvements in perceived social, physical, and political support were noted in the intervention group (P < 0.001).
• The intervention group demonstrated a significant increase in physical activity levels compared to the control group.

Conclusions:

• Socioecological model-based interventions are effective in positively influencing women's physical activity levels.
• Multi-level strategies addressing individual, social, and environmental factors can promote physical activity.
• This study provides evidence for the utility of the socioecological model in public health interventions targeting physical activity.