The FIT FIRST 10 dose-response study: evaluation of implementation outcomes

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Health
• Exercise Science
• Educational Interventions

Background:

• Childhood physical inactivity poses significant health risks.
• Schools are ideal settings for promoting physical activity (PA).
• School-based PA programs face implementation challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the implementation of the FIT FIRST 10 (FF10) multi-sport program in Danish schools.
• To assess the impact of program dosage on implementation outcomes.
• To understand teachers' perceptions of the program's acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility.

Main Methods:

• A 20-week cluster randomized controlled trial involving 27 schools.
• Intervention groups received either a full (3 lessons/week) or half (1.5 lessons/week) dose of the FF10 program.
• Data collected via teacher logbooks and online questionnaires on implementation fidelity, acceptability, feasibility, and teacher factors.

Main Results:

• High program fidelity was observed in both full and half-dose groups.
• Teachers rated the FF10 program moderately acceptable, appropriate, and feasible.
• Teachers reported moderate capabilities and high opportunities but low motivation, especially regarding perceived benefits.

Conclusions:

• The FF10 program was largely delivered as intended, with high fidelity.
• Time constraints, facility limitations, and modest teacher motivation were implementation barriers.
• Reducing program dosage did not enhance implementation; ongoing support is needed for teacher motivation and program integration.