Per-protocol investigation of a best practice exercise referral scheme

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Exercise Science
• Health Promotion

Background:

• Exercise referral schemes (ERS) are a key public health intervention.
• UK best practice guidelines provide a framework for effective ERS.
• Scotland faces prevalent health concerns, including cardiovascular and respiratory conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a UK best practice-aligned ERS on various health outcomes.
• To assess the effectiveness of ERS for conditions prevalent in the Scottish population.
• To examine effects on physical fitness, functional capacity, and psychosocial well-being.

Main Methods:

• Longitudinal study design with data collected at baseline, midway, and post-intervention (12 weeks).
• Assessed physical fitness (heart rate, blood pressure, lung function, VO2 peak), functional capacity (sit to stand test), and psychosocial well-being (WHOQOL-BREF, POMS).
• Utilized growth curve analyses to model outcome trajectories over time.

Main Results:

• Significant linear improvements observed in physical performance tests and psychosocial assessments.
• Significant quadratic effects noted for body composition and physical activity levels, with greatest gains early in the intervention.
• ERS demonstrated positive effects on lung function, cardiovascular fitness, functional capacity, and mental well-being.

Conclusions:

• An ERS adhering to UK guidelines effectively enhances multiple health outcomes, including those relevant to Scotland's population.
• The findings support ERS as a valuable tool for improving physical and mental health.
• Further research is recommended, considering participants' initial health status.