Digital interventions to promote physical activity among inactive adults: A study protocol for a hybrid type I...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Digital Health Interventions
• Exercise Science

Background:

• Physical inactivity is a major global mortality risk factor, linked to lifestyle diseases.
• Digital interventions show preliminary efficacy in promoting physical activity (PA).
• Innovative PA promotion strategies require effectiveness and implementation testing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To test the effectiveness of different digital intervention combinations for increasing PA.
• To assess long-term exercise adherence in inactive adults.
• To evaluate implementation outcomes of these interventions in a real-world setting.

Main Methods:

• A hybrid type I effectiveness-implementation randomized control trial (ONWARDS study).
• 180 inactive adults assigned to 3 groups: activity tracker (PAI), tracker + online training, or tracker + training + peer support.
• 18-month intervention period with comprehensive secondary outcome assessments.

Main Results:

• The study aims to determine which intervention combination is most effective for increasing PA levels.
• It will assess exercise adherence, physical fitness, cardiovascular risk, and quality of life.
• User perspectives on adoption, acceptability, adherence, and sustainability will be gathered.

Conclusions:

• Digital interventions can reduce disparities in PA levels and prevent lifestyle diseases.
• Home-based digital programs offer accessible alternatives to traditional facilities.
• Effective interventions could be integrated into national health portals or prescribed by clinicians.