Promoting Adherence to Physical Activity Advice

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Introduction[edit | edit source]

Physical Activity (PA) can be described as any body movements produced by skeletal muscles that requires energy expenditure[1]. Based on this definition, the level of PA ranges from sedentary to vigorous. However, public health guidelines refer to “Physical Activity” as health-enhancing physical activity[2]. Since sedentary activity has shown to adversely affect cardiometabolic markers in healthy adults[3], we can use the term “Physical Activity” to describe any non-sedentary activities that may include active recreational, occupational, and household activities as well as structured exercise regime.

There is vast evidence on the benefits of regular physical activity. Among others, it is effective in preventing cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and cancer diseases; and in improving overall physical and mental health status[4]. There are many studies that examine the effectiveness of various clinical and community interventions to increase physical activity levels of general and specific population. However, other studies show that about 50% of adult population who start a physical activity program will drop out within a few months[5]. This article will cover the general principles, charasteristics, examples, and evidences of interventions that promote adherence to physical activity in general population. 

Risk Factors for Non-adherence to Physical Activity[edit | edit source]

The following table lists the factors that may lead to lower adherence to physical activity level as recommended by public health guidelines:

Factors associated with non-adherence to physical activity
Demographic Factors older age
female gender
non-white ethnicity
low socioeconomic background
Health Related Factors chronic illnesses
poor general health and physical function
obesity
Cognitive and Psychological Factors

Resources[edit | edit source]

The Motivate2Move website, created by Wales Deanery, has a useful section on sedentary behaviour.

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References[edit | edit source]

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  1. Caspersen CJ, Powell KE, Christenson GM. Physical activity, exercise, and physical fitness: definitions and distinctions for health-related research.  Public Health Reports 1985;100(2):126-131.
  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Physical Activity: Glossary of Terms. https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/glossary/index.htm. (accessed 27 April 2018)
  3. Healy GN, Matthews CE, Dunstan DW, Winkler EA, & Owen N. Sedentary time and cardio-metabolic biomarkers in US adults: NHANES 2003–06. European Heart Journal 201132(5), 590-597.
  4. Warburton DER, Nicol CW, Bredin SSD. Health benefits of physical activity: the evidence. CMAJ: Canadian Medical Association Journal 2006;174(6):801-809. doi:10.1503/cmaj.051351.
  5. Dishman RK. Overview. In: Dishman RK, ed. Exercise adherence: It’s impact on public health. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics; 1988.