The Impact of Physical Activity Behavior Change Training for Preprofessional Health Students-A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Health Professions Education
• Behavioral Science
• Public Health Interventions

Background:

• Health professionals are key to promoting physical activity.
• Training in physical activity behavior change for preprofessional health students is under-researched.
• This review examines the impact of such training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the impact of physical activity behavior change training on preprofessional health students.
• To assess changes in knowledge, skills, confidence, and attitudes/intentions toward physical activity promotion.

Main Methods:

• Searched multiple databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, PsycInfo, CINAHL) up to October 2024.
• Included 16 peer-reviewed studies in English, focusing on training interventions and outcomes.
• Assessed risk of bias and conducted a narrative synthesis due to heterogeneity.

Main Results:

• All 16 studies reported positive effects on knowledge, skills, confidence, or attitudes.
• Combined theoretical and practical training approaches led to greater improvements than single-component approaches.
• High risk of bias was noted in 12 out of 16 studies.

Conclusions:

• Training preprofessional health students in physical activity support enhances their capabilities.
• Variability in methods and high risk of bias warrant cautious interpretation of findings.
• Further research is needed on long-term impacts on students and patient outcomes.