Randomised controlled trial comparing two group-based exercise programmes (team sport vs circuit training) on men's...

Area of Science:

• Exercise science
• Public health
• Sports medicine

Background:

• Physical activity is crucial for overall health, yet many middle-aged Australian men are inactive.
• Group-based exercise and team sports enhance adherence and motivation.
• Limited research exists on comparing team sport with traditional group exercise for this demographic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effects of team sport versus group circuit training on physical activity and health in insufficiently active middle-aged men.
• To evaluate impacts on psychological and social health, exercise motivation, and sleep quality.

Main Methods:

• A 12-week parallel randomized controlled trial involving 128 men aged 35-54 years.
• Participants engaged in either team sport or group circuit training.
• Assessments included physical activity (accelerometry), quality of life, motivation, psychological needs, sleep, and metabolic markers.

Main Results:

• Both interventions improved physical activity levels and health-related quality of life.
• Team sport participation demonstrated higher levels of exercise motivation and psychological needs satisfaction compared to circuit training.
• Further analysis of specific health markers and sleep quality is ongoing.

Conclusions:

• Team sport and group circuit training are effective for improving health and physical activity in middle-aged men.
• Team sport may offer superior psychological and motivational benefits, suggesting its potential as a preferred intervention.
• Future research should explore long-term adherence and broader health outcomes.