Development, implementation and evaluation of the 'BELIEVE' program for improving physical activity among women: a...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Behavioral Science
• Community Health Interventions

Background:

• Insufficient physical activity is a significant public health concern among women.
• Effective interventions require multilevel approaches and stakeholder involvement due to complex lifestyle determinants.
• A mixed-method action research approach was employed to develop a tailored program for women's physical activity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop, implement, and evaluate a bespoke program aimed at enhancing physical activity levels in women.
• To explore the application of the Mobilizing for Action through Planning and Partnerships (MAPP) process in a community setting.
• To identify effective strategies for promoting sustainable physical activity behaviors in women.

Main Methods:

• A four-phase action research methodology was utilized in Tehran from 2013-2015.
• The study involved organizing participants into committees and collecting mixed-method data.
• Interventions were developed and implemented, followed by a quasi-experimental evaluation and contextual analysis.

Main Results:

• Three key interventions proved effective: sports assistants, local health promotion with culturally competent materials, and group-based cognitive behavioral therapy.
• Significant improvements in physical activity (PA) scores were observed post-intervention (P < 0.001).
• A co-created "adjusted MAPP model" emerged from three action cycles, detailing stakeholder interactions and program impacts.

Conclusions:

• Collaborative strategies derived from comprehensive problem identification positively impacted women's physical activity.
• Action research strategies are effective in promoting physical activity among women.
• The MAPP framework is recommended for community-based interventions to address specific needs and leverage community strengths.