Physical activity self-efficacy online intervention for adults with obesity: protocol for a feasibility study

Area of Science:

• Behavioral science
• Obesity research
• Physical activity promotion

Background:

• Adults with obesity benefit from physical activity, independent of weight loss.
• The Physical Activity Self-efficacy (PAS) intervention is a novel online program designed to enhance physical activity in adults with obesity.
• This protocol details a feasibility study for the PAS intervention in the USA.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the feasibility and acceptability of the PAS online intervention.
• To assess the potential of an online behavioral intervention for promoting physical activity in adults with obesity.
• To gather data for planning a future definitive randomized controlled trial.

Main Methods:

• Prospective, double-blind, parallel-group, individual randomized pilot trial.
• Thirty participants with obesity (BMI ≥ 25.00 kg/m²) recruited from a US weight management center.
• Primary outcomes: participation rate, engagement, and preliminary effect size of PAS on physical activity, measured via accelerometry and surveys.

Main Results:

• Feasibility and acceptability data will be collected and analyzed.
• Preliminary effect size estimates for physical activity will be determined.
• The study aims to establish the viability of the PAS intervention for future research.

Conclusions:

• Results will inform the design of a definitive randomized controlled trial.
• This feasibility study is crucial for optimizing the PAS intervention for adults with obesity.
• The findings will contribute to evidence-based strategies for increasing physical activity in this population.