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Physical activity intervention for rural middle-aged and older Australian adults: a pilot implementation study of the
Magdalena Wilczynska1, Anna K Jansson1, David R Lubans1
1Priority Research Centre for Physical Activity and Nutrition, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Newcastle, NSW, 2308, Australia.
Background:
ecofit is an evidence-based multi-component physical activity intervention that integrates smartphone technology, the outdoor environment, and social support. In a previous efficacy trial, significant improvements were found across several clinical, fitness, and mental health outcomes among adults at risk of (or with) type 2 diabetes.
Methods:
The aim of the present pilot study was to evaluate a number of patient-centered and feasibility outcomes of the ecofit intervention in a "real-world" setting, using a scalable implementation model. ecofit was adapted and implemented by a rural municipal council in the Upper Hunter Shire, New South Wales, Australia, and evaluated using a single-group pre-post design. Inactive middle-aged and older adults (N=59) were recruited and assessed at 6 (primary time-point) and 20 weeks (follow-up).
Results:
Improvements were found in this predominantly overweight and obese sample for aerobic fitness, functional mobility, upper and lower body muscular fitness, systolic blood pressure, and waist circumference at 6 weeks. At 20 weeks, effects were found for aerobic fitness, functional mobility, upper and lower body muscular fitness, and systolic blood pressure. Overall, participants were satisfied with the ecofit program. Participants attended the 6-week primary time-point (66.1%) and follow-up at 20 weeks (41.6%).
Conclusions:
Our findings support the preliminary effectiveness and feasibility of the ecofit intervention delivered by municipal council staff following a brief training from the research team. This study provides valuable preliminary evidence to support a larger implementation trial.
