Pilot study on increased adherence to physical activity on prescription (PAP) through mindfulness: study protocol

Area of Science:

• Health Sciences
• Psychology
• Preventive Medicine

Background:

• Low physical activity levels are prevalent in Sweden, with only 7.1% of adults aged 50-64 meeting recommendations.
• Physical Activity on Prescription (PAP) has moderate adherence (approx. 50%) in Sweden.
• Mindfulness interventions may enhance motivation and satisfaction with physical activity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To test the feasibility of a study in routine primary care settings.
• To evaluate if mindfulness improves adherence to Physical Activity on Prescription (PAP).
• To assess changes in physical activity levels as a measure of adherence.

Main Methods:

• 90 sedentary adults (40-65 years) randomized to PAP, mindfulness + PAP, or mindfulness only.
• Mindfulness intervention: 8 weekly sessions, 20 min daily practice.
• Physical activity measured by ActiGraph GT1X at baseline, 3, and 6 months.

Main Results:

• This pilot study primarily evaluates feasibility metrics: recruitment rate, dropout numbers, and adherence to mindfulness practice.
• The study will assess the impact of mindfulness on PAP adherence and physical activity changes.
• No main results are available as this is a feasibility study.

Conclusions:

• This study is the first to explore the effect of mindfulness on adherence to PAP.
• It tests the feasibility of a study design for integrating mindfulness into routine primary care.
• Results will guide future research on mindfulness-based interventions for physical activity adherence.