Process Evaluation of Project FFAB (Fun Fast Activity Blasts): A Multi-Activity School-Based High-Intensity Interval...

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Exercise Science
• Adolescent Health Interventions
• School-Based Physical Activity

Background:

• School-based high-intensity interval training (HIIT) research for adolescents is growing.
• Previous studies often focus on outcomes, neglecting implementation processes.
• A mixed-methods process evaluation is needed to understand intervention delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a mixed-methods process evaluation of Project FFAB, a school-based HIIT intervention for adolescents.
• To explore recruitment, reach, intervention dose, fidelity, participant experiences, context, and future implementation.
• To identify areas for optimizing school-based HIIT programs.

Main Methods:

• Mixed-methods approach combining quantitative recruitment, reach, and dose data with qualitative focus groups.
• Recruitment assessed by comparing information provided vs. consent obtained.
• Focus groups with 33 adolescents (aged 14.1 ± 0.3 years) explored fidelity, experiences, context, and implementation.

Main Results:

• Project FFAB demonstrated successful recruitment, reach, and delivery as planned.
• Qualitative data revealed a perceived mismatch in HIIT work:rest ratios and a desire for more activity variety.
• Participants found HIIT enjoyable, with heart rate monitors aiding intensity understanding; session timing received mixed feedback.

Conclusions:

• School-based HIIT interventions like Project FFAB are supported by this study.
• Recommendations include adjusting session timing based on preferences, increasing activity diversity, and clarifying HIIT work:rest ratios.
• These insights are valuable for optimizing the implementation of future school-based HIIT programs.