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Physical Activity Knowledge Among US Community Health Workers.
Ana Selzer1, Andiara Schwingel1, Pedro C Hallal1
1Department of Health and Kinesiology, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA.
Journal of Physical Activity & Health
|December 30, 2025
Summary
Community health workers (CHWs) have limited knowledge of physical activity (PA) guidelines, despite recommending PA to clients. Enhancing CHW education on PA guidelines is crucial for improving community health outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Health Promotion
- Community Health
Background:
- Physical activity (PA) guideline awareness is low among US adults.
- Community health workers (CHWs) are vital for health promotion in underserved populations.
- Limited data exists on CHW knowledge of PA guidelines.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess Community Health Workers' (CHWs) knowledge and awareness of physical activity (PA) guidelines.
- To identify gaps in CHW understanding of recommended PA dosages.
Main Methods:
- A national survey was administered to 108 CHWs.
- The questionnaire assessed knowledge and awareness of PA guidelines from the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion.
- Demographic data and PA guideline knowledge scores were collected.
Main Results:
- Only 38% of CHWs were familiar with PA guidelines, despite 77.6% recommending PA.
- Average knowledge scores were low, with significant gaps in understanding recommended PA dosages (moderate, vigorous, muscle-strengthening).
- Familiarity with PA guidelines correlated with correct responses on dosage-specific questions.
Conclusions:
- A significant knowledge gap exists regarding PA guidelines among CHWs.
- Increased education on PA guidelines for CHWs may enhance their effectiveness in promoting PA.
- Future research should explore the impact of enhanced CHW education on community PA levels.
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