Attitudes Surrounding a Community-Based Fitness Intervention at an Urban FQHC

Area of Science:

• Community Health
• Preventive Medicine
• Health Education

Background:

• Urban populations near federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) exhibit poorer health outcomes.
• Community members expressed a strong preference for aerobics and dance classes.
• FQHCs can play a role in addressing community-identified health needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a patient-centered fitness and nutrition class on participants' health attitudes, knowledge, and self-efficacy.
• To assess the effectiveness of a resident physician-led program in a community setting.

Main Methods:

• An 8-week urban line dancing class and healthy eating intervention was conducted.
• The program was offered weekly at a YMCA adjacent to an FQHC.
• Pre- and post-surveys measured changes in attitudes and confidence regarding physical activity and healthy lifestyles.

Main Results:

• Participants reported improved self-assessed health and increased physical activity levels.
• Confidence in performing daily activities and engaging in regular exercise significantly increased.
• While confidence in reading food labels improved, confidence in maintaining a balanced diet did not.

Conclusions:

• A resident-led fitness and nutrition program, aligned with community needs, demonstrated significant engagement and sustained participation.
• This pilot study contributed to community infrastructure for health, nutrition, and fitness.
• The findings highlight opportunities and challenges in community engagement for physical fitness initiatives.