Context-Based Development to Promote Physical Activity Among Working-Age Populations: Participatory Action Research...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Behavioral Science
• Occupational Health

Background:

• Insufficient physical activity (PA) is a major health concern for working-age adults.
• Targeting PA interventions for adults aged 35-60 requires context-specific strategies.
• Understanding occupational and exercise habits is key to designing effective PA programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and implement context-specific processes for promoting PA in working adults aged 35-60 years.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of tailored PA promotion programs.
• To identify factors influencing PA participation in diverse occupational groups.

Main Methods:

• A participatory action research approach was employed across seven provinces in Thailand.
• Participants were categorized into four groups based on occupation and exercise habits.
• A 6-month PA promotion program, including an exercise regimen and tracking guide, was implemented.

Main Results:

• The study tracked 175 participants over 6 months, with good retention rates.
• Significant increases in achieving recommended PA levels were observed in participants with non-PA occupations and no prior exercise.
• While initially meeting PA recommendations, participants with exercise habits at baseline did not sustain these levels by the study's end.

Conclusions:

• Context-based PA promotion programs can effectively enhance physical activity participation among working adults, particularly those with sedentary occupations.
• Tailoring interventions to specific occupational and lifestyle contexts is essential for improving population health.
• Further research is needed to develop strategies for sustained engagement and program adherence.