Dissertations / Theses: 'Physical activity behaviour'

1

Clarke, Kerry. "Physical activity referral schemes : adherence and physical activity behaviour change." Thesis, University of Northampton, 2013. http://nectar.northampton.ac.uk/7483/.

Full text

Abstract:

It is well known that engaging in physical activity (PA) reduces the risk of developing non-communicable diseases and improves general health. However, at the time of this research, less than half of the UK population met the recommended levels of PA (DH, 2010). Physical activity referral schemes (PARS) are one of the interventions available in primary care (NICE, 2006a) for disease prevention and health improvement, despite a high dropout rate (Gidlow, 2005) and unknown long-term effectiveness (Pavey et al., 2011). The main aim of the four studies presented in this thesis was to explore the adherence and behaviour change towards PARS in Northamptonshire. The first study measured the long-term change in PA levels after participation in Activity on Referral (AOR). The key outcome was a significant increase in self-reported long-term PA levels (mean difference 1000 MET minutes/week) for 105 adhering participants from a total of 2228 participants. One in every 21 referred individuals self-reported an increase in PA at 12 months. To explore the high levels of non-adherence, an interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA; Smith, 1996) was conducted with seven non-adhering AOR participants. The findings showed that being listened to at the point of referral, a range of positive experiences during the induction, alternative opportunities to increase activity, and potential to re-engage in PARS were some of the factors that enhanced adherence. Even though currently the key behaviour change measure for a PA intervention is an increase in PA, there is no gold standard self-reporting PA measure. Therefore, the third study was a comparison that tested the applicability of the new General Practice Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPPAQ) and the internationally validated International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). The GPPAQ is recommended to be used as a screening tool by health professionals for the latest PARS called Let‟s Get Moving (LGM). There was a significantly weak association between IPAQ and GPPAQ. Hence, the GPPAQ is only recommended to be used as a PA screening tool and not for evaluating PA levels for PARS research studies. The final study was based on the new LGM physical activity care pathway which included a brief intervention using Motivational Interviewing (MI), a communication style that elicits the individuals‟ ambivalence regarding PA. Eight out of 21 participants self-reported a PA increase at 6 months and the MI used during the PARS was coded at beginner level. The two PARS included in this thesis were compared for adherence; LGM adherence was 65% compared to 23% AOR adherence at 3 months. In conclusion, this research has demonstrated that PA levels do increase for PARS participants in the long term, but the dropout rate can be concerning. By using a mixed-methods approach, the lived experience of participants enhances the understanding of reasons behind non-adherence. The comparative study involving LGM and AOR samples showed that interventions with elements of MI might be a better investment of commissioned resources.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

2

Garnham-Lee, Katy P. "Predicting physical activity behaviour across early adolescence." Thesis, Loughborough University, 2018. https://dspace.lboro.ac.uk/2134/35275.

Full text

Abstract:

Physical activity (PA) has been labelled the miracle drug (Pimlott, 2010) and participating in regular PA has ample physical and mental wellbeing benefits. However, physical inactivity remains a critical public health concern, particularly across adolescence. In England the proportion of adolescents aged 13-15 years meeting the recommended guidelines for PA decreased significantly from those at a younger age (Health and Social Care Information Centre, 2009; 2012; 2015). The adolescent years (13 18 years) have been identified as the age of greatest decline in PA, although it is possible that large declines can also be seen at younger ages (Sallis, 2000). Among girls the decline in PA is greater at younger ages (9 12 years old) and among boys it is greater at older ages (13 16 years old) (Dumith, Gigante, Domingues, & Kohl, 2011). Thus, examining behaviour of early adolescents (aged 11-13 years) is a primary focus of this thesis. Researchers have called for a more comprehensive grasp of PA correlates and determinants and their impact on behaviour (Biddle & Mutrie, 2001, 2008). This broader picture needs to incorporate longitudinal study designs to accurately portray developmental changes (Evenson & Mota, 2011). This thesis aims to work towards a better understanding of associations among variables across aspects of the ecological model in relation to PA behaviour during early adolescence. Early adolescents within their first year of secondary school (year 7, aged 11 12 years) were recruited through schools across the East Midlands, United Kingdom (UK). These participants completed various measures across an 18 month period to compile all data required for the thesis. The thesis begins with a focus on active transport as a means of commuting to school which can significantly contribute to overall PA levels (Aibar, Bois, Generelo, Bengoechea, & Paillard, 2015; Slingerland, Borghouts, & Hesselink, 2012). The distance from home to school is an important influence on the decision to use active transport; however, ecological perspectives would suggest this variable may interact with individual, interpersonal and environmental factors. Therefore, the first study of this thesis investigates whether the relationship between distance to school and active transport is moderated by (i) gender, (ii) biological maturation, (iii) perceived family support for PA and (iv) multiple deprivation. Cross-sectional results from the baseline data collected demonstrated that the relationship between distance to school and the likelihood to actively travel to school is moderated by biological maturation, multiple deprivation and family support of PA in adolescents. Further analysis revealed that late-maturing children, those from less socio-economically deprived backgrounds and children with low family support of PA are less likely to actively commute to school as distance to school increases. Due to the interaction between these variables described above, the second study focused on the variables collectively using a person-oriented approach, which aimed to classify distinct profiles of early adolescents based on correlates of PA. The outcome variables were also broadened to include active transport and overall PA across two time points. Findings from this second study illustrate that the highly supported, shortest commuters produced the highest levels of self-reported PA and that affluent, short commuters were the most likely to use active transport to travel to school. The affluent, short commuters lived a relatively short distance to school in areas of the lowest deprivation and had relative moderate family support of PA. The highly supported, shortest commuters were characterised by the highest family support of PA and lived the shortest distance to school in areas of low deprivation. Study 1 evidenced an association between biological maturation and PA behaviour; however, study 2 displayed that biological maturation did not meaningfully contribute to the class characteristics, and were not a predictor of PA. Previous evidence as to whether early, average or late maturing adolescents are more likely to disengage from PA is mixed and tends to focus on one gender only (Sherar, Cumming, Eisenmann, Baxter-Jones, & Malina 2010; Bacil, Mazzardo, Rech, Legnani, & Campos, 2015). Thus for the third study a more focused inspection of biological maturity was undertaken. Biological maturity status was investigated as a predictor of PA behaviour at two subsequent time points (6 9 months after baseline and 12 18 months after baseline) and whether there was variation across genders. Findings displayed that biological maturity status does not predict subsequent PA, with no distinction across genders. To conclude, the final study examined additional forms of PA behaviour. For children to develop and maintain healthy PA behaviours, their PA during the school day, particularly during physical education (P.E) classes is important (Owen, Smith, Lubans, Ng, & Lonsdale, 2014). Self-reported PA was divided into school-time PA (during P.E. lessons, break and lunchtimes) and leisure-time PA (after school, during evenings and weekends). The final study fully utilised the longitudinal data collected and utilised longitudinal growth modelling to describe the changes in PA behaviour across 12-18 months during early adolescence. Results displayed that school-time PA and leisure-time PA are distinct. Males; those from less deprived backgrounds and individuals with higher family support of PA all separately reported more school-time PA than their counterparts (females, those from higher deprived backgrounds and individuals with lower family support of PA) at baseline. Males and those with higher family support of PA also reported more leisure-time PA than their respective counterparts at baseline. On average, both genders decreased in school-time PA across 18 months yet for leisure-time PA, on average, there was no change over time and no significant difference in the rate of change between genders. There were no observed significant differences in the rate of change between multiple deprivation status and biological maturation across the 18 months for both behaviours. For family support, on average school-time PA decreased over time and results showed significant difference in the rate of change between individuals with lower or higher levels of family support of PA across the 18 months. On average, there was no change over time for leisure-time PA yet there was a significant difference in the rate of change between individuals and their family support of PA across 18 months. Further analysis demonstrated if an individual s family support increases, so does their leisure-time PA and vice versa. These overall key findings demonstrate the complexity of PA behaviour throughout early adolescence. This thesis works towards predicting individuals, correlates and determinants that may be susceptible to physical inactivity and/or a decrease in activity over time. Results can be used to target and direct PA intervention work.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

3

Gunnell, Katie Elizabeth. "Psychological need satisfaction in physical activity : Implications for well-being and physical activity behaviour." Thesis, University of British Columbia, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/2429/45108.

Full text

Abstract:

Within Self-Determination Theory (Deci & Ryan, 2002) the satisfaction of competence, autonomy, and relatedness needs are thought to directly predict psychological well-being and behavioural outcomes (Deci & Ryan, 2000). The purpose of this program of research was to examine the role of psychological need satisfaction in association with psychological well-being and physical activity in participants drawn from the general population. Study 1 examined aspects of score validity and reliability for an instrument modified to assess psychological need satisfaction in physical activity contexts. Results of this investigation supported the merit of the modified instrument for use in the general population. Study 2 supported a sequence based on 3 mini-theories within SDT wherein changes in relative intrinsic goals → changes in motivation → psychological need satisfaction → changes in well-being and physical activity behaviour over 6 months. Examination of the indirect effects highlighted the role of psychological need satisfaction as potential mediators within this sequence of SDT. Next, a randomized controlled trial was conducted to examine the effect of a best possible physical activity self writing intervention on outcomes such as psychological need satisfaction, exercise self-schema, well-being, and physical activity behaviour. Study 3 was conducted using baseline data from the intervention to examine the indirect effect of psychological need satisfaction in the relationship between exercise self-schema and well-being/physical activity. Results from study 3 suggested that satisfaction of all 3 psychological needs mediated the link between descriptive exercise self-schema and well-being and that competence produced an indirect effect between descriptive exercise self-schema and physical activity. Results from the intervention investigation (study 4) revealed that a once a week writing intervention over 4 weeks increased participants’ positive affect at post-test relative to the control group; however, the intervention was largely unsuccessful at increasing psychological need satisfaction, exercise self-schema, well-being and physical activity across post-test and 1-month follow-up. Taken together, the results from the four studies in this program of research highlight the salience of psychological need satisfaction in physical activity contexts and their potential mediational role between antecedents such as goals, motivation, and self-schema and consequences such as well-being and physical activity.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

4

Mansoubi, Maedeh. "Sedentary behaviour and physical activity in adults : measurement and behaviour change." Thesis, Loughborough University, 2015. https://dspace.lboro.ac.uk/2134/19986.

Full text

Abstract:

The increasing evidence of associations between sedentary behaviour and low levels of physical activity in adults and both immediate and long term health implications is of public health concern. There is a need to further our understanding of adult's health behaviours, to facilitate the development of behaviour change strategies promoting healthy behaviours. This thesis provides four independent but interlinked studies focusing on adult s sedentary behaviour and physical activity in the context of measurement and behaviour change. Chapter 1 provides an introduction to the thesis where the scene is set for the placement of the studies in this thesis in the field of sedentary behaviour, physical activity, and measurement methods. Chapter 2 describes a systematic review of the relationship between sedentary behaviour and physical activity in adults. This systematic review is of primary importance as it was instrumental in shaping and informing the direction of the research described in later chapters. Chapter 3 describes a laboratory study investigating the measurement of energy expenditure during common sitting and standing tasks and also examines the 1.5 MET definition of sedentary behaviour. This study provides evidence that the 1.5 MET threshold for sedentary behaviours seems reasonable however some sitting-based activities may be classified as non-sedentary in people of differing weight status. This study raised some important questions on the validity of objective measurement devices for differentiating between sitting and standing postures. Thus, Chapter 4 of this thesis describes a laboratory study investigating the validity of the ActiGraph inclinometer algorithms for differentiating between sitting and standing postures. Chapter 5 is an intervention investigating sedentary behavior and physical activity compensation outside working hours in a sample of office workers exposed to sit-to-stand desks in the workplace. This thesis found that light physical activity, especially standing, could be one of the most efficient and feasible behaviours to replace sedentary behaviour. Such findings add considerably to the existing literature. Targeting such facets of adults behaviour and specially office workers holds great potential for behaviour change strategies.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

5

Spörndly-Nees, Søren. "Physical activity and eating behaviour in sleep disorders." Doctoral thesis, Uppsala universitet, Sjukgymnastik, 2016. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:uu:diva-308395.

Full text

Abstract:

Sleep-disordered breathing and insomnia are common sleep disorders and associated with an increased risk of morbidity. The aim of this thesis was to study the contribution of a behavioural sleep medicine perspective on sleep-disordered breathing and insomnia. More specific, factors considered important for changing eating behaviour and the impact of physical activity were studied. Methods: In study I, semi-structured interviews of participants with obstructive sleep apnoea and obesity (n = 15) were analysed using a qualitative content analysis. A population-based female cohort was followed prospectively over ten years in study II and III using a postal questionnaire on two occasions (n = 4,851 and n = 5062, respectively). In study IV, a series of five experimental single-case studies was conducted testing how an aerobic exercise intervention affected selected typical snores, following an A1B1A2B2A3 design over nine days and nights (n = 5). Results: Facilitators and barriers towards eating behaviour change were identified. A low level of self-reported leisure-time physical activity was a risk factor among women for future habitual snoring complaints, independent of weight, weight gain alcohol dependence or smoking. Maintaining higher levels or increasing levels of leisure-time physical activity over the ten-year period partly protected from snoring complaints (study II). Further, a low level of self-reported leisure-time physical activity is a risk factor for future insomnia among women. Maintaining higher levels or increasing levels of leisure-time physical activity over the ten-year period partly protect against self-reported insomnia, independent of psychological distress, age, change in body mass index, smoking, alcohol dependence, snoring status or level of education (study III). Single bouts of aerobic exercise did not produce an acute effect on snoring the following nights in the studied individuals. A pronounced night-to-night variation in snoring was identified (study IV). Conclusion: Women with sleep disorders would benefit from a behavioural sleep medicine perspective targeting their physical activity in the prevention and management of snoring and insomnia. This is motivated by the protective effects of physical activity confirmed by this thesis. Knowledge was added about facilitators and barriers for future eating behaviour change interventions.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

6

McParlin, Catherine. "Physical activity behaviour in overweight and obese pregnant women." Thesis, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/10443/2996.

Full text

Abstract:

Background: Increasing physical activity (PA) may help to reduce the risk of obesity related pregnancy complications. However little is known about the amount, type and intensity of PA obese pregnant women engage in, or the most appropriate measurement method. Previous research suggests that obese pregnant women receive limited advice concerning PA from midwives. Objectives: To investigate the amount of PA carried out by this population and how this changes during pregnancy, to compare measurement methods, and to describe the knowledge, attitudes and practice of midwives surrounding PA. Methods: 1. 130 pregnant women, BMI≥25kg/m2, consented to PA measurement at 2 or 3 time points using the Actigraph accelerometer and Recent Physical Activity Questionnaire. 2. Questionnaires were designed and distributed to midwives within 3 NHS Trusts on Tyneside (n=365) with the aim of identifying barriers to discussing and advising PA with obese pregnant women. The design used the Theoretical Domains Framework approach which uses behavioural determinants to investigate implementation difficulties. Results: 1. At 12-16 weeks gestation over half of the participants achieved 30 minutes of moderate or vigorous PA, decreasing by 36 weeks to 24%. Women who were more active at baseline decreased their PA during pregnancy; those who were less active remained so. Self-reported PA also fell but did not correlate with objectively measured PA. 2. Midwives scored highest on knowledge and social-professional role and lowest on skills, capabilities and environment/context/resources domains. Regression analysis indicated that skills and memory/attention/decision domains had a significant influence on discussing PA. Conclusion: Research is needed to find methods to encourage obese women to increase and maintain PA levels before and during pregnancy, and to find the most appropriate PA measurement methods. Midwives feel knowledgeable and believe giving PA advice to be part of their role, but lack skills, capabilities and resources. Strategies to remove such barriers are needed.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

7

Brunet, Jennifer. "Self-presentation among breast cancer survivors:implications for physical activity behaviour." Thesis, McGill University, 2012. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=106243.

Full text

Abstract:

This research program involved three studies. Study one was a qualitative study, grounded in constructivist epistemology, in which semi-structured interviews with 11 breast cancer survivors were conducted to better understand women's perceptual, attitudinal/cognitive, affective, and behavioural experiences with their changed physique following treatment for breast cancer. Appearance was important to these women. They had negative perceptions of their changed physique and this evoked primarily negative emotions. These women engaged in appearance management strategies to camouflage the unwanted side effects of cancer treatments and used diet and physical activity to try to alter their physique. Study two involved the completion of a self-administered questionnaire package. The objectives were to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Self-Presentation in Exercise Questionnaire (SPEQ), examine the cross-sectional relationships between self-presentation processes and physical activity behaviour among breast cancer survivors, and determine if social cognitive constructs moderate these relationships. The SPEQ was best represented as a two-factor oblique model with impression motivation and impression construction factors. Impression motivation related to breast cancer survivors' physical activity behaviour, and self-presentation efficacy and outcome value moderated this relationship. Study three involved the completion of a self-administered questionnaire package three times over the span of six months. The objectives were to describe naturally occurring changes in breast cancer survivors' self-presentation processes and physical activity over a period of six-months, evaluate the associations between cancer-specific factors and self-presentation processes, and physical activity behaviour, and disentangle the within- and between-person effects of impression motivation and impression construction on physical activity behaviour. In general, self-presentation processes remained stable over time, whereas physical activity levels changed over time. Women who had received radiotherapy reported lower levels of impression motivation and impression construction, whereas women who had received chemotherapy reported higher levels of impression motivation. Last, self-presentation processes had both within- and between-person effects on physical activity behaviour. Collectively, this program of research provides evidence that researchers and health care providers who work with women should be cognizant of the impact that the physical changes following breast cancer may have on them and help them develop positive attitudes toward their bodies. It also provides insight into the relationships between self-presentation processes and physical activity behaviour, and identified potential moderators that are essential to helping understand these associations. These findings can be used to provide researchers with information that will assist in the development of theoretically and empirically based interventions aimed at increasing physical activity levels in this population.
Ce programme de recherche a été conçu en trois études. La première était une étude qualitative, fondée sur le courant constructiviste de l'épistémologie, au cours de laquelle des entretiens semi-structurés ont été réalisés auprès de 11 survivantes du cancer du sein pour mieux comprendre les expériences perceptives, attitudinales/cognitives, affectives et comportementales en ce qui a trait aux changements physiques qui ont suivi les traitements pour le cancer du sein. L'apparence était importante pour les survivantes du cancer du sein de l'étude. Elles ont manifesté des perceptions négatives à propos des changements de leur corps et ceci a suscité essentiellement des émotions négatives. Ces femmes ont eu recours à une gestion de stratégies pour préserver leur apparence afin de camoufler les effets secondaires indésirables subvenus à la suite des traitements pour le cancer et elles ont tenté de modifier leur physique en suivant des diètes et en pratiquant de l'activité physique. L'étude deux consistait à remplir une série de questionnaires autoadministrés. Les objectifs étaient d'évaluer des propriétés psychométriques du Self-Presentation in Exercise Questionnaire (SPEQ), d'examiner les relations transversales entre les processus de présentation de soi et la pratique d'activités physiques chez les survivantes du cancer du sein, et de vérifier si les variables sociocognitives ont un effet modérateur sur ces relations. Le SPEQ était bien représenté en tant que modèle à deux facteurs obliques qui mesurent le processus par lequel les personnes contrôlent les impressions que les autres ont à leur égard. L'intérêt que les survivantes du cancer du sein portaient à la façon dont les autres les percevaient et les évaluaient était en lien avec leur pratique d'activités physiques. De plus, la perception d'efficacité et la valorisation de la présentation de soi ont modéré cette relation. La troisième étude consistait à remplir un ensemble de questionnaires autoadministrés à trois reprises au cours d'une période de six mois. Les objectifs étaient de décrire les changements naturels des processus de présentation de soi et la pratique d'activités physiques chez des survivantes du cancer du sein lors d'une période de six mois, d'évaluer les associations entre les facteurs liés au cancer, les processus de présentation de soi et la pratique d'activités physiques, et de discerner les relations des processus de présentation de soi, aux niveaux personnel et interpersonnel, en lien avec l'activité physique. En général, au cours du temps, les processus de présentation de soi sont demeurés stables alors que les niveaux d'activité physique ont changé. Les femmes qui ont reçu de la radiothérapie ont déclaré des niveaux d'intérêts plus bas à la façon dont les autres les perçoivent et elles ont utilisé moins de stratégies pour se présenter aux autres de façon positive. En revanche, les femmes qui ont reçu de la chimiothérapie ont utilisé davantage de stratégies. Finalement, les processus de présentation de soi ont montré à la fois des effets, tant au niveau personnel qu'interpersonnel, sur la pratique d'activités physiques. En conclusion, dans l'ensemble, ce projet de recherche démontre que les chercheurs et les professionnels de la santé qui travaillent auprès des femmes devraient connaitre l'impact que les changements physiques après un cancer du sein peuvent avoir sur celles-ci et ils devraient les aider à développer des attitudes positives envers leur corps. Aussi, ce projet de recherche donne un aperçu des relations entre les processus de présentation de soi et la pratique d'activités physiques et il détermine les modérateurs potentiels qui sont essentiels pour aider à la compréhension de ces associations. Ces résultats peuvent être utilisés pour renseigner et guider les chercheurs à concevoir des interventions théoriques et empiriques dans le but d'augmenter les niveaux d'activité physique chez cette population.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

8

Kelly, Louise A. "Objectively measured physical activity and sedentary behaviour in young children." Thesis, University of Glasgow, 2005. http://theses.gla.ac.uk/1521/.

Full text

Abstract:

Study 1: Aims: Compare the uniaxial MTI/CSA accelerometer and the biaxial Actiwatch accelerometer against direct observation of total physical activity and minute-by-minute physical activity in 3-4 year olds. Methods: MTI/CSA-7164 and Actiwatch accelerometers simultaneously measured activity during 35-45 minute sessions of structured play in 78, 3-4 year olds. Rank order correlations between accelerometry and direct observation were used to assess the ability of the accelerometers to assess total activity. Within-child minute-by-minute correlations were calculated between accelerometry output and direct observation. Results: For assessment of total activity MTI/CSA output was significantly positively correlated with direct observation (r 0.72, p<0.001), Actiwatch was not (r 0.16, p>0.05). Conclusion: The present study suggests that for epidemiological assessment of total physical activity in young children the MTI/CSA-7164 provides greater accuracy than the Actiwatch. Study 2: Aim: To cross-validate the 1100 counts/ minute cut-off for the assessment of sedentary behaviour in an independent sample of young children using the MTI/CSA accelerometer. Methods: A previously developed cut-off for MTI-CSA accelerometry output (validation study) in 30 healthy Scottish 3-4 year olds, was cross-validated against direct observation in an independent sample of (n = 52) healthy Scottish 3-4 year olds. Results: In the cross-validation study sensitivity was 83%: 438/528 inactive minutes were correctly classified. Specificity was 82%: 1251/1526 non-inactive minutes were correctly classified using this cut-off. Conclusion: Sedentary behaviour can be quantified objectively in young children using accelerometry.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

9

Aznar, Lain Susana. "Environmental and significant others' influences on children's physical activity behaviour." Thesis, University of Bristol, 1998. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.262816.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

10

Hemmingsson, Erik. "Physical activity in severely obese adults : behaviour and risk outcomes." Thesis, University of Bristol, 2003. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.404298.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

11

Webb, Justin. "Physical activity behaviour change : supporting cancer survivors to move more." Thesis, University of Surrey, 2018. http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/850020/.

Full text

Abstract:

This thesis is presented in five chapters. Chapter one offers a review of the literature, divided into six sections. The first section of this chapter provides an understanding of cancer as a disease and a public health concern, including detail on its incidence and prevalence, the biology of cancer and its treatment. The second section of this chapter reviews the literature on physical activity and cancer across the cancer continuum, from prevention of cancer, through cancer treatment, living with or beyond cancer, advanced cancer, and detail on physical activity and cancer mortality and recurrence. The third section of this chapter discusses the determinants of physical activity in cancer survivors, framed within behavioural theories and models to support the identification of intervention opportunities. The identified intervention opportunities are covered in the fourth section. The fifth section of this chapter presents the scope and relevance of the research included in this thesis. The sixth section provides a summary of chapter one. Chapter two presents the first study included within this thesis, a service evaluation investigating the reach, adoption, and impact of a training intervention to influence UK healthcare professionals to give very brief advice on physical activity to cancer survivors. This study also includes an assessment of the predictive value of the behavioural theory upon which the intervention is based, the COM-B model of behaviour (Michie, van Stralen, & West, 2011). Chapter two includes four sections covering an introduction, the method, results, and discussion. Chapter three presents the second study within this thesis. The second study is a randomised waiting list control trial to investigate the impacts of a remote-print based intervention supported by Internet-based tools on the physical activity, self-efficacy, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of cancer survivors. The randomised waiting list control trial also includes a cost-consequence analysis. Chapter four presents the third study of this thesis, a process evaluation of the remote-print based intervention supported by Internet-based tools. This process evaluation aimed to contextualise use and perceived usefulness of the intervention, supporting the identification of what works and for whom. Chapter five then closes this thesis with a discussion on the theoretical and practical contributions of the body of research as a whole. This final chapter also includes discussion on how the interventions under assessment influence the identified determinants of physical activity in cancer survivors, and identification of future research possibilities.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

12

Asare, Mavis. "Physical activity, sedentary behaviour and mental health in young people." Thesis, Loughborough University, 2013. https://dspace.lboro.ac.uk/2134/13202.

Full text

Abstract:

Physical Activity and Health Abstract: More research is needed in physical activity and sedentary behaviour and their associations with mental health in young people. Study 1 examined the effect size for the association between sedentary behaviour and mental health in young people aged 5-18 years of age, using a meta-analysis. Results from 37 independent studies (n=373, 512) showed a small but significant effect size (r=-0.30, 95% CI= -0.20, -0.45, p<0.001), indicating that sedentary behaviour is associated with mental health problems in young people. Study 2 examined the association between sedentary behaviour and mental health in African young people. Participants were 296 adolescents (150 males, 146 females) aged 13 to 18 years (mean=14.85 years) living in Ghana. Participants physical activity levels were assessed using the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Older Adolescents (PAQ-A) and sedentary behaviour, using the Adolescents Sedentary Activity Questionnaire. Depression was assessed using the Children Depression Inventory and aspects of self-esteem were measured with the Physical Self-worth test and body image silhouette test. There was a significant negative correlation between physical activity and mental health [depression (r= -0.78, p<0.001); physical self-worth (r=0.71, p<0.001); body dissatisfaction (r= -0.76, p<0.001)]. Moreover, sedentary behaviour was significantly associated with higher depression (r=0.68, p<0.001). Affluence was a significant contributing factor of sedentary behaviour in African young people [t (294)= -7.30, p<0.001]. Moreover, Study 3 examined the impact of physical activity on cognitive functioning in African young people. An experimental design was used with 60 adolescents (27 males, 33 females) aged 13 to 18 years (mean=14.83 years) living in Ghana. Participants physical activity and health were assessed both at baseline and at the end of the intervention. Physical activity levels were measured using the PAQ-A and by pedometer; cognitive functioning was assessed with the Raven s Progressive Matrices test, with additional psychological variables of physical self-worth being measured with a subscale of the Physical Self Perception Profile, and body dissatisfaction using the body image silhouette test. The participants in the experimental group participated in aerobic physical activities, twice a week for 6 weeks. Results from the study showed that participants in the experimental school scored significantly higher on cognitive functioning [F (1,56)=34.77, p<0.001]; and self-esteem than those in the control group. From this current research the new finding seems to be associated with affluent behaviour being a significant contributing factor of sedentary behaviour in African youth, whereas other findings in the Western culture show that the weather is one of the contributing factors for sedentary behaviour in young people.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

13

Morrison, Ryan. "Physical activity and sedentary behaviour in humans and pet dogs." Thesis, University of Glasgow, 2015. http://theses.gla.ac.uk/5989/.

Full text

Abstract:

Physical inactivity is a major contributor to non-communicable diseases and many adults and children are insufficiently active to maintain good health. The proportion of children who meet the United Kingdom recommendations for physical activity (at least 60 minutes of moderate-vigorous intensity physical activity each day) has been reported to be as low as 3% for boys and 2% for girls. Systematic reviews on interventions to promote physical activity in childhood have shown that although physical activity is modifiable to some degree most interventions have had only modest and short-term impacts on physical activity. Therefore, novel approaches to physical activity promotion in childhood are required. Dog ownership is a significant societal factor that may be used to encourage and sustain health behaviour change at individual and population levels. A number of observational studies have reported that dog ownership and/or dog walking are associated with increased levels of physical activity. However, evidence is lacking as to whether and how interventions with families and their dogs can be used to promote physical activity. Therefore, the major aim of this thesis was to assess the feasibility, acceptability and potential efficacy of a theory-driven, family-based, dog walking intervention for 9–11 year old children and their families. However, prior to this it was essential to develop ActiGraph cut-points for measuring physical activity intensity in dogs. The ability to measure the intensity of dog physical activity accurately was important as it allows for the effectiveness of dog walking interventions to be tested, therefore another aim of this thesis was to calibrate and cross-validate ActiGraph cut points that can be used to describe physical activity in dogs by intensity. Similarly, no studies have been published previously that assess which factors are related to dog physical activity when measured using ActiGraph accelerometry. It was therefore desirable to explore whether body condition score, breed, age, and neutered status are associated with ActiGraph measured dog physical activity. Furthermore, no published studies have described the spontaneous changes in dog physical activity during substantial weight loss; therefore, another aim of this thesis was to explore changes in physical activity in dogs during a 6 month calorie controlled weight loss programme. Using Receiver Operating Curve analyses Chapter 2 showed that the ActiGraph GT3X can accurately measure the amount of time a dog spends sedentary, in light-moderate intensity physical activity and in vigorous intensity physical activity. The sensitivity and specificity of the cut-points developed when using both the integrated axes and vertical axis accelerometry data were high. Agreement between the accelerometer data and direct observation in the cross-validation subset was also ‘very good’ (as measured by Cohen’s Kappa). This indicates that the ActiGraph GT3X accelerometer is accurate when measuring the intensity of physical activity in dogs, facilitating the use of the ActiGraph GT3X to describe the frequency, intensity and duration of dog physical activity in Chapters 3-6 of this thesis. Chapter 3 shows that, in a sample of dogs of varying breed and body condition scores, obese dogs spend significantly less time in ActiGraph measured vigorous intensity physical activity than ideal weight dogs (6 ± 3minutes/day versus 20 ± 14 minutes/day). Chapter 4 focussed on the factors related with physical activity in the two most commonly registered dog breeds in the United Kingdom, Labrador Retrievers and Cocker Spaniels. Five potential correlates (age, sex, breed, neuter status, body condition score) were tested with associations with ActiGraph measured physical activity. Age and breed were associated with total volume of physical activity, light-moderate intensity physical activity and sedentary behaviour in the final models and age was also associated with vigorous intensity physical activity. Unlike Chapter 3 body condition score was not related with any physical activity variables. Chapter 5 explored the changes in physical activity and sedentary time during weight loss in dogs enrolled in a 6 month calorie controlled weight loss programme. Despite an average weight loss of 15% body weight from baseline there was no marked increase in any ActiGraph measured physical activity variable. Chapter 6 describes the results of the Children Parents and Pets Exercising Together (CPET) Study. CPET was the first exploratory randomised controlled trial to develop and evaluate an intervention aimed at dog-based physical activity promotion in children, their parents and pet dogs. The results show that the CPET intervention was both feasible and acceptable to study participants. Eighty-nine percent of families enrolled in CPET were retained at follow up. Ninety-five percent of intervention sessions were delivered and ActiGraph measured physical activity data were collected for 100% of children, 96% of parents and 96% of dogs at baseline, and 100% of children, 96% of parents and 96% of dogs available at follow up. Despite the apparent feasibility and acceptability of CPET there was no significant change in the primary outcome measure (child physical activity) or the majority of the secondary measures. This thesis shows that the ActiGraph GT3X accelerometer is capable of accurately measuring the intensity of dog physical activity. It also shows that obesity may be related to lower levels of objectively measured vigorous intensity physical activity and the physical activity levels in dogs decline with age and vary by breed. However, it appears that physical activity levels do not increase spontaneously as dogs lose substantial amounts of body weight. Using pet dogs as the agent of lifestyle change in physical activity interventions in children and their parents is both feasible and acceptable; however, the lack of any apparent increase in child physical activity suggests that the intervention may need to be modified in a future, more definitive trial. In summary, the findings of this thesis have important implications for the measurement of physical activity intensity in dogs, the understanding of factors associated with dog physical activity and for the development of dog-walking interventions in children and their parents.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

14

Parnell, Samantha Helen Sylvia. "Social marketing for physical activity and health : encouraging patterns of physical activity in school children." Thesis, University of Exeter, 2016. http://hdl.handle.net/10871/29540.

Full text

Abstract:

Physical inactivity is one of the major public health problems of the 21st Century. In England it is reported that two thirds of adults ( > 16 yr) and one third of children ( < 16 yr) do not do sufficient physical activity to gain the health benefits that leading a physically active lifestyle has to offer. The benefits of physical activity and dangers of a sedentary lifestyle to health outcomes are well documented and numerous studies have investigated physical activity participation. Indeed, many interventions have been trialled to increase engagement in physical activity; however results are weak and generally do not correlate to sustained physical activity participation. Furthermore, much debate exists on how best to encourage both children and adults alike to engage in sufficient physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. The purpose of this research was to address this important research gap and to assess the physical activity levels and other factors for promoting engagement in physical activity of school aged children in Devon aged 7-15 years in order to assess the feasibility of using social marketing within the school setting to increase sustained physical activity participation. A mixed methods approach was adopted to gather data and consisted of both quantitative and qualitative methods, in two phases. The initial phase was quantitative in nature and utilised a self-report survey based on the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) (Azjen, 1991) and social cognitive theory (SCT) (Bandura, 1977) to measure the participants’ physical activity levels; it also measured their beliefs and attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioural control and self-efficacy pertaining to physical activity participation. The second phase utilised qualitative methods adopting the socio-ecological model (McLeroy et al., 1988) to identify opportunities to promote participation in physical activity in recognising the multiple factors (individual, social environment, physical environment and policy) that influence an individual’s behaviour. This phase consisted of a series of interviews with the students, teachers and head-teachers to enable the researcher to gain in depth information into physical activity patterns and beliefs. During phase two, ethnographic research was also conducted across a number of schools in Devon to complement and enhance the data collected in the survey. The results revealed that of the 1124 participants (‘students’) surveyed, 48% were not sufficiently active to meet the government guidelines. Males were 30% more active than females. Physical activity decreased with age (e.g. 15 yr olds on average taking part in 3 hours less activity than 7 yr olds). Lifestyle/recreational activities were the most regularly participated activities (e.g. walking – 52%, running – 31%, football – 29%, outdoor play – 28%). Moreover, attitudes, subjective norms and perceptions of behavioural control affected physical activity participation both in and out of the school setting. Self-efficacy also played a role in physical activity participation. The results of the thesis show that interview and ethnographic data produced a rich source of evidence. Physical activity provision within schools played a major role in students’ physical activity. Overwhelmingly the qualitative data revealed that students want greater choice in the physical activities they participate in and suggest that the focus of PE lessons should be on having fun and enjoyment rather than skills and rules. Transition from primary to secondary school affected physical activity participation and therefore experiences in schools, may affect children’s general views on physical activity which it is suggested may impact on physical activity participation beyond the school gates and also in adulthood. This thesis provides substantial evidence to support the link between the school environment and participation in physical activity in children and adolescents. More specifically it highlights a need to incorporate a ‘whole school approach’ to physical activity participation. This research has demonstrated that there is an urgent need to combine theory based physical activity research in schools with that of social marketing. Physical activity researchers and social marketers should combine their knowledge to bring together social marketing campaigns within schools to enhance the health and wellbeing of the whole school environment for both staff and students. An innovative school based social marketing campaign should encourage physical activity both within and outside the school environment and lead to sustained levels of physical activity participation across the life stages.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

15

Park, Saengryeol. "Physical activity and sedentary behaviour in older adults : associations with physical and mental health." Thesis, University of Birmingham, 2017. http://etheses.bham.ac.uk//id/eprint/7441/.

Full text

Abstract:

With an increasing ageing population, it is important to explore factors that can contribute to healthy ageing. Physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviour (SB) are associated with psychological and physical health in older adults. This thesis therefore aims to explore the associations between PA as well as SB and a range of health, motivational, environmental factors in older adults from assisted living facilities (ALFs) and community settings using various methodological approaches. Study 1 used latent profile analyses to group people based on PA, SB, and physical function in resident of ALFs. It was found that those classed as high physical function with an active lifestyle had better mental health compared to those who had lower physical function and an inactive lifestyle. These findings suggest that in order to improve mental health in older adults, interventions should take all these variables into account. Study 2 used latent profile analyses to classify people based on the degree of autonomy support from important others and perceptions of the physical environment, and subsequently examined differences in engaging in light PA and moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) between these groups. Results suggest that perceptions of the physical environment should be taken into account along with support from important others to facilitate increases in levels of PA. Study 3 employed ecological momentary assessment to examine the within-person association of light PA, MVPA, and SB in relation to bodily pain and fatigue in older community dwelling adults. This study revealed associations between bodily pain and PA, as well as SB. Furthermore, daily fatigue was influenced by typical fatigue and physical health. The overall conclusion of the studies presented in this thesis implies that individual, social, and environmental factors and its interactions can all contribute to mental health, PA, SB, bodily pain, and fatigue outcomes in older adults.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

16

Tomaz, Simone Annabella. "Self-reported measures versus objective measures of physical activity and sedentary behaviour : impacts of cardiovascular fitness and physical activity." Master's thesis, University of Cape Town, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/11427/5926.

Full text

Abstract:

Includes abstract.
Includes bibliographical references.
Physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviour (SB) can be quantified with both self-report and objective measures, using questionnaires and accelerometers, respectively. There is a paucity of research investigating the possible influence that cardiorespiratory fitness and PA might have on the accuracy of self-reported of PA and SB. This is especially important with the increasing evidence around the risks of SB, independent of PA. The aim of this research study is to describe the difference between self-reported measures of moderate PA, vigorous PA and SB against their objectively measured counterparts. The secondary aim is to identify factors influencing the error in self-report measures; including cardiorespiratory fitness and levels of PA.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

17

Hutchinson, Andrew John. "Understanding successful physical activity behaviour change using a grounded theory methodology." Thesis, Sheffield Hallam University, 2009. http://shura.shu.ac.uk/17709/.

Full text

Abstract:

Research evidence highlights regular physical activity (PA) as an increasingly important factor in the prevention of a variety of chronic diseases. Consequently, encouraging people to make PA related lifestyle changes is an everyday challenge faced by health professionals in primary and secondary health care settings. Although a number of intervention strategies have been developed and implemented, research evidence presents only limited support for their efficacy. While short-term changes may be achievable using current intervention strategies, long-term change (i.e. maintenance) appears much more difficult to achieve. Although many public health interventions are developed without explicit reference to theory, evidence suggests that the explicit use of theory will significantly improve the chances of effectiveness (Nutbeam & Harris, 2004). As no existing theoretical models are specifically intended to account for PA behaviour change, a number of pre-existing theoretical frameworks have been adopted to explain PA participation. This thesis reviews the existing body of theoretical literature in exercise psychology alongside conducting a systematic review (Study 1) of interventions based on the Transtheoretical Model (TTM). As a result, the theoretical depth or explanatory quality of existing models and theories is called into question, when applied to a PA context and specific phenomena such as long-term PA behaviour change. After reflecting on the debate surrounding different epistemological viewpoints and theoretical perspectives, applications of an alternative theory generating research approach (the Grounded Theory Methodology: GTM) are explored and evaluated. As a result, in light of the considerable epistemological debate that surrounds GTM, study 2 of this thesis focuses explicitly on methodological issues within exercise psychology. A critical review of applications of GTM within exercise psychology is conducted. Results reveal that many existing studies.demonstrate a poor understanding of GTM and/or fail to present an adequate account of the research process. Ultimately the results of study 2 provide valuable implications for study 3 of this thesis, which adopts GTM to develop an ecologically valid explanatory model of long-term PA behaviour change. Twenty-one adult participants (9 male, 12 female), aged between 38 and 62 years, were recruited from a countywide PA referral scheme. All participants had made long-term, positive changes to their PA habits. Participants contributed to 25 in-depth interviews. All sampling and analytical procedures were dictated by the key tenets of GTM and a constructivist theoretical stance. To assist with the GTM process, the software package QSR-NVivo was used throughout. A grounded theory of longterm PA behaviour change is presented in the form of a multidimensional explanatory model. The model identifies a number of observed cognitive processes, which appear central to PA behaviour change and maintenance. The underlying mechanisms responsible for these are also highlighted. Results are discussed with specific emphasis on literature surrounding value theories, core beliefs and the introduction of prominent clinical psychology and psychotherapy approaches within exercise psychology. Finally, implications for theory development and applied practice are highlighted and directions for future research suggested.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

18

De, Vivo Marlize. "Predicting and understanding physical activity behaviour during pregnancy : a multiphase investigation." Thesis, Canterbury Christ Church University, 2017. http://create.canterbury.ac.uk/15881/.

Full text

Abstract:

Background: The benefits of physical activity during pregnancy extend to both mother and baby, however, little is known about the reasoning behind expecting mothers' decision to initiate or maintain regular participation during this period. Objective: The main purpose of this research project was to investigate the socio-cognitive determinants of pregnant women's physical activity behaviour. Method: A mixed methods research approach using a multiphase design with the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) as conceptual framework guided the investigation. Application of the TPB required both qualitative (Study One; n = 18) and quantitative (Study Two; n = 78) cross-sectional data to be collected which addressed the aims of understanding and predicting physical activity behaviour during pregnancy. A further qualitative study (Study Three; n = 10) involving semi-structured interviews with community midwives augmented the investigation. Results: Whilst findings from individual studies have merit, a major strength of this study pertain to the 'meta-inferences' drawn from the combination of studies. Specifically, findings suggest that (1) pregnant women do not have access to the necessary information that would allow them to make informed decisions regarding their engagement in physical activities; (2) a co-ordinated effort is required to support pregnant women in overcoming barriers associated with regular exercise participation; and (3) profiling pregnant women according to motivation and behaviour status could serve as a useful and manageable starting point for intervening to produce positive changes in pregnant women's physical activity behaviour. Conclusion: In achieving better health and ensuring greater health outcomes for mothers and babies it is necessary to consider the factors involved in behaviour change, identify opportune moments to intervene, and involve health professionals in facilitating and supporting the lifestyle changes that may be required.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

19

Loveday, Adam. "Advancing the objective measurement of physical activity and sedentary behaviour context." Thesis, Loughborough University, 2017. https://dspace.lboro.ac.uk/2134/25470.

Full text

Abstract:

Objective data from national surveillance programmes show that, on average, individuals accumulate high amounts of sedentary time per day and only a small minority of adults achieve physical activity guidelines. One potential explanation for the failure of interventions to increase population levels of physical activity or decrease sedentary time is that research to date has been unable to identify the specific behavioural levers in specific contexts needed to change behaviour. Novel technology is emerging with the potential to elucidate these specific behavioural contexts and thus identify these specific behavioural levers. Therefore the aims of this four study thesis were to identify novel technologies capable of measuring the behavioural context, to evaluate and validate the most promising technology and to then pilot this technology to assess the behavioural context of older adults, shown by surveillance programmes to be the least physically active and most sedentary age group. Study one Purpose: To identify, via a systematic review, technologies which have been used or could be used to measure the location of physical activity or sedentary behaviour. Methods: Four electronic databases were searched using key terms built around behaviour, technology and location. To be eligible for inclusion papers were required to be published in English and describe a wearable or portable technology or device capable of measuring location. Searches were performed from the inception of the database up to 04/02/2015. Searches were also performed using three internet search engines. Specialised software was used to download search results and thus mitigate the potential pitfalls of changing search algorithms. Results: 188 research papers met the inclusion criteria. Global positioning systems were the most widely used location technology in the published research, followed by wearable cameras and Radio-frequency identification. Internet search engines identified 81 global positioning systems, 35 real-time locating systems and 21 wearable cameras. Conclusion: The addition of location information to existing measures of physical activity and sedentary behaviour will provide important behavioural information. Study Two Purpose: This study investigated the Actigraph proximity feature across three experiments. The aim of Experiment One was to assess the basic characteristics of the Actigraph RSSI signal across a range of straight line distances. Experiment Two aimed to assess the level of receiver device signal detection in a single room under unobstructed conditions, when various obstructions are introduced and the impacts these obstructions have on the intra and inter unit variability of the RSSI signal. Finally, Experiment Three aimed to assess signal contamination across multiple rooms (i.e. one beacon being detected in multiple rooms). Methods: Across all experiments, the receiver(s) collected data at 10 second epochs, the highest resolution possible. In Experiment One two devices, one receiver and one beacon, were placed opposite each other at 10cm increments for one minute at each distance. The RSSI-distance relationship was then visually assessed for linearity. In Experiment Two, a test room was demarcated into 0.5 x 0.5 m grids with receivers simultaneously placed in each demarcated grid. This process was then repeated under wood, metal and human obstruction conditions. Descriptive tallies were used to assess the signal detection achieved for each receiver from each beacon in each grid. Mean RSSI signal was calculated for each condition alongside intra and inter-unit standard deviation, coefficient of variation and standard error of the measurement. In Experiment Three, a test apartment was used with three beacons placed across two rooms. The researcher then completed simulated conditions for 10 minutes each across the two rooms. The percentage of epochs where a signal was detected from each of the three beacons across each test condition was then calculated. Results: In Experiment One, the relationship between RSSI and distance was found to be non-linear. In Experiment Two, high signal detection was achieved in all conditions; however, there was a large degree of intra and inter-unit variability in RSSI. In Experiment Three, there was a large degree of multi-room signal contamination. Conclusion: The Actigraph proximity feature can provide a binary indicator of room level location. Study Three Purpose: To use novel technology in three small feasibility trials to ascertain where the greatest utility can be demonstrated. Methods: Feasibility Trial One assessed the concurrent validity of electrical energy monitoring and wearable cameras as measures of television viewing. Feasibility Trial Two utilised indoor location monitoring to assess where older adult care home residents accumulate their sedentary time. Lastly, Feasibility Trial Three investigated the use of proximity sensors to quantify exposure to a height adjustable desk Results: Feasibility Trial One found that on average the television is switched on for 202 minutes per day but is visible in just 90 minutes of wearable camera images with a further 52 minutes where the participant is in their living room but the television is not visible in the image. Feasibility Trial Two found that residents were highly sedentary (sitting for an average of 720 minutes per day) and spent the majority of their time in their own rooms with more time spent in communal areas in the morning than in the afternoon. Feasibility Trial Three found a discrepancy between self-reported work hours and objectively measured office dwell time. Conclusion: The feasibility trials outlined in this study show the utility of objectively measuring context to provide more detailed and refined data. Study Four Purpose: To objectively measure the context of sedentary behaviour in the most sedentary age group, older adults. Methods: 26 residents and 13 staff were recruited from two care homes. Each participant wore an Actigraph GT9X on their non-dominant wrist and a LumoBack posture sensor on their lower back for one week. The Actigraph recorded proximity every 10 seconds and acceleration at 100 Hz. LumoBack data were provided as summaries per 5 minutes. Beacon Actigraphs were placed around each care home in the resident s rooms, communal areas and corridors. Proximity and posture data were combined in 5 minute epochs with descriptive analysis of average time spent sitting in each area produced. Acceleration data were summarised into 10 second epochs and combined with proximity data to show the average count per epoch in each area of the care home. Mann-Whitney tests were performed to test for differences between care homes. Results: No significant differences were found between Care Home One and Care Home Two in the amount of time spent sitting in communal areas of the care home (301 minutes per day and 39 minutes per day respectively, U=23, p=0.057) or in the amount of time residents spent sitting in their own room (215 minutes per day and 337 minutes per day in Care Home One and Two respectively, U=32, p=0.238). In both care homes, accelerometer measured average movement increases with the number of residents in the communal area. Conclusion: The Actigraph proximity system was able to quantify the context of sedentary behaviour in older adults. This enabled the identification of levers for behaviour change which can be used to reduce sedentary time in this group. Overall conclusion: There are a large number of technologies available with the potential to measure the context of physical activity or sedentary time. The Actigraph proximity feature is one such technology. This technology is able to provide a binary measure of proximity via the detection or non-detection of Bluetooth signal: however, the variability of the signal prohibits distance estimation.
The Actigraph proximity feature, in combination with a posture sensor, is able to elucidate the context of physical activity and sedentary time.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

20

Kazi, A. "Promoting physical activity in the workplace : a stage of change approach." Thesis, Loughborough University, 2013. https://dspace.lboro.ac.uk/2134/13404.

Full text

Abstract:

Regular physical activity is associated with improved physiological and psychological wellbeing, by reducing the risk of chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, obesity, diabetes, osteoporosis and depression. There is a common perception that physical activity levels in the population are declining, and one of the biggest changes affecting this is occupational based activity. Since adults spend on average over 50% of their waking hours at work, work sites have the potential to be an important setting for health promotion initiatives. Cognitions and behaviours are key causal factors behind many of today s most widespread health problems and illnesses. The stage of change model has been highlighted as having intuitive appeal because it considers the dynamic nature of attitudes and behaviour change. This thesis is concerned with the application of the stage of change model to an occupational health intervention promoting physical activity. Several research studies were undertaken to explore the experiences of employees with workplace health initiatives and investigate the strategies and practices used by occupational health to promote healthy behaviours. These research studies highlighted the barriers and facilitators to successful health interventions and contributed towards the design, development and implementation of an activity promotion intervention. Additional research was also conducted to develop information materials based on the stage of change model. The stage approach was simplified and intervention materials were classified based on whether employees were thinking about making a change or not thinking about making a change to their activity levels. In order to test the materials, a twelve month intervention was implemented in ten work sites across the UK that were allocated to one of three groups. Two groups received information materials and one group received no information during the intervention period (control group). The difference between the two groups who received information was that one group received standard activity promotion information (standard group) and the second group received tailored information based on their stage of change construct (staged group). Participants in the staged intervention group demonstrated significant decreases in body mass index, fat percentage, waist circumference, blood pressure and resting heart rate following the twelve month intervention. In contrast, reductions were identified for the standard intervention group for waist circumference and diastolic blood pressure. Finally, there were no long-term significant improvements identified for the control group. However, group comparisons revealed there were no significant differences between the intervention conditions. The intervention also recorded self-reported psychological outcomes, which demonstrated variations throughout the intervention period for all groups. The potential reasons for these inconsistent outcomes are discussed. A process evaluation following the intervention demonstrated employees valued the health screenings and identified issues relating to knowledge, behaviour change and health implications that were important outputs of the intervention. Based on these findings, the research concludes there is scope to make physical activity interventions in the workplace more effective by applying the stage of change approach. Using the process of simplifying the stages and focusing on whether employees want to change their behaviours or not allows occupational health to deliver information that could be more meaningful and have a significant impact on behaviour change. By understanding employees readiness to change their activity behaviours and targeting information based on their beliefs, attitudes and intentions to change may produce significant improvements in health outcome measures compared to standard information. The results also suggest there is potential for this type of tailored intervention to be extended to other occupational health issues.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

21

Koreny, Maria 1972. "Determinants of physical activity behaviour in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease." Doctoral thesis, TDX (Tesis Doctorals en Xarxa), 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/10803/671432.

Full text

Abstract:

Background: Although physical activity is key to improve prognosis in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), information to tailor interventions individually is still required. This thesis aims to understand physical activity progression and explore its determinants in COPD patients. Methods: We used baseline and 12-month data from 643 COPD patients with stable mild-to very severe disease from two European multicenter studies. We assessed: physical activity (Dynaport MoveMonitor), physical activity experience (Clinical visit-PROactive physical activity in COPD [C-PPAC]), functional exercise capacity (6-minutes walk distance [6MWD]), as well as sociodemographic, interpersonal, environmental, clinical and psychological variables. Results: (1) The natural progression in physical activity over time was heterogeneous and three distinct patterns could be identified: Inactive, Active Improvers and Active Decliners. While Inactive patients related to worse scores for clinical COPD characteristics, Active Improvers and Decliners could not be predicted at baseline; (2) Higher population density and long-term NO2 exposure were associated with lower physical activity, while a steeper slope of the terrain related to better exercise capacity; (3) twelve-month completion of a behavioral physical activity intervention was determined by previous physical activity habits as well as interpersonal and environmental facilitators, while response to the intervention was related to diverse factors associated with motivation to change to an active lifestyle. Conclusions: This thesis shows that the natural progression of physical activity in COPD patients is heterogeneous and highlights that environmental, interpersonal and psychological factors are important determinants of physical activity behaviour in COPD patients, beyond clinical factors.
Antecedentes: Aunque la actividad física es clave para mejorar el pronóstico en pacientes con enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (EPOC), todavía no se dispone de información que permita adaptar las intervenciones de manera individualizada. El objetivo de la presente tesis es comprender la progresión de la actividad física y explorar sus determinantes en pacientes con EPOC. Métodos: Utilizamos datos basales y de seguimiento (12 meses) de 643 pacientes con EPOC estable de estadio leve a muy grave, procedentes de dos estudios europeos multicéntricos. Evaluamos: actividad física (Dynaport MoveMonitor), experiencia de actividad física (Clinical visit-PROactive physical activity in COPD [C-PPAC]), capacidad funcional de ejercicio (distancia caminada en la prueba de la marcha de 6 minutos [6MWD]) y variables sociodemográficas, interpersonales, ambientales, clínicas y psicológicas. Resultados: (1) La progresión natural de la actividad física a lo largo del tiempo fue heterogénea y se pudieron identificar tres patrones distintos: inactivo, activo que aumenta y activo que reduce. Mientras que el patrón de pacientes inactivo se relacionaba con peores características clínicas de la EPOC, no se pudo predecir la evolución de los activos a aumentar o reducir; (2) la mayor densidad de población y la exposición a largo plazo al NO2 se asociaron desfavorablemente con la actividad física, mientras que una mayor pendiente del terreno se relacionó con una mejor capacidad de ejercicio; (3) la compleción a los 12 meses con una intervención de actividad física conductual estuvo determinada por los hábitos de actividad física previos, así como por facilitadores interpersonales y ambientales, mientras que la respuesta a la intervención se relacionó con diversos factores asociados a la motivación para cambiar a un estilo de vida activo. Conclusiones: Esta tesis muestra que la progresión natural de la actividad física en los pacientes con EPOC es heterogénea y destaca que los factores ambientales, interpersonales y psicológicos son importantes determinantes de la actividad física en los pacientes con EPOC, más allá de los factores clínicos. Resum Antecedents: Malgrat el paper clau de l’activitat física per millorar el pronòstic en pacients amb malaltia pulmonar obstructiva crònica (MPOC), encara no disposem d’informació que permeti individualitzar les intervencions. L’objectiu d’aquesta tesi és entendre la progressió de l’activitat física i explorar-ne els determinants en pacients amb MPOC.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

22

Foley, Louise Sherwyn. "Sedentary behaviour and physical activity in New Zealand children : Intervention and measurement." Thesis, University of Auckland, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/2292/8291.

Full text

Abstract:

Background: Increasing physical activity and decreasing sedentary behaviour is important for the prevention and treatment of childhood obesity. Interventions to decrease sedentary behaviour (primarily sedentary screen-time) in children have had success in reducing screentime, increasing physical activity and improving body composition. Active video games, where players physically interact with on-screen images, are a promising intervention for reducing sedentary behaviour and increasing physical activity. However, there is a dearth of intervention research. Furthermore, research is limited by difficulties in accurately measuring these behaviours. Aim: To examine new approaches for intervention in, and measurement of, sedentary behaviour and physical activity in New Zealand children. Method: Two complementary studies were undertaken. The first was a large (n=322) randomised controlled trial that examined the effect of a 24 week active video games intervention on physical activity, sedentary behaviour and body composition in overweight and obese children. The second was a validation (n=32) of a self-report tool used to quantify daily energy expenditure, sedentary behaviour and physical activity in children. Doubly labelled water and accelerometry were used as the validation standards for energy expenditure and behaviour, respectively. Results: The first study found a significant treatment effect for body mass index over 24 weeks (-0.24kg/m2, 95% CI -0.44 to -0.05, p=0.02), favouring the intervention group. Overall levels of physical activity and sedentary behaviour did not change; however intervention participants reported playing more active video games (10.03 minutes, 95% CI 6.26. to 13.81, p<0.0001), and less sedentary video games (-9.39 minutes, 95% CI -19.38 to 0.59; p=0.07) than control. In the second study, the self-report tool indicated moderate validity for the assessment of total daily energy expenditure (rho=0.70, p<0.0001) and activity-related energy expenditure (rho=0.54, p=0.001) compared to the criterion standard of doubly labelled water. Compared to accelerometry, the self-report tool indicated moderate validity for the assessment of time spent in physical activity (rho=0.42, p=0.02) and weak validity for the assessment of time spent in sedentary behaviour (0.20, p=0.30). Conclusion: Active video games may be useful to promote a healthy weight in overweight or obese children. The self-report tool may be used in future sedentary behaviour intervention research.
Whole document restricted until Sep. 2012, but available by request, use the feedback form to request access.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

23

Nettlefold, Lindsay Anne. "Patterns of physical activity and sedentary behaviour and cardiovascular health in children." Thesis, University of British Columbia, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/2429/35692.

Full text

Abstract:

Introduction: Physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviours are important modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease in adults; however, we know much less about their role for enhancing and sustaining children’s cardiovascular health. The aim of this thesis is to evaluate the relation between PA, sedentary time, and cardiovascular health in children. Methods: Participants were volunteers in a two-year randomized controlled dissemination trial of a whole school PA model (30 schools; 1,529 children). Activity intensity was measured via accelerometry (n=629), arterial compliance by applanation tonometry (n=250), and cardiovascular fitness (CVF) using a 20-meter shuttle run test (n=1,319). Results: In study 1, epoch length influenced the volume of activity recorded; however, the direction and magnitude of the bias depended on activity intensity and volume. In study 2, girls accumulated less moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) and more sedentary time compared with boys, except during physical education. Fewer girls than boys met PA guidelines during school, recess, and lunch. Similarly few boys and girls (< 3%) met PA guidelines during physical education. In study 3, PA was beneficially associated with small, but not large, artery compliance. Bouted MVPA was not associated with small or large artery compliance. In study 4, activity was associated with CVF in children. However, the association between bouted MVPA and CVF was not independent of total MVPA. In study 5, girls and boys randomized to intervention schools had 31-37% greater CVF at the end of year one compared with children attending control schools; the magnitude was clinically relevant, but not statistically significant after adjusting for school clusters. There was no betweengroup difference across year two. Conclusions: Objective measures of activity improve the relation between PA and cardiovascular health thus future research should standardize methods and use accelerometers to assess children’s activity whenever possible. Children undertake little PA during school, particularly during physical education. Whole school PA interventions may enhance the cardiovascular health of children; however, generalist teachers require training and support for sustained effects. Long term prospective trials of activity (assessed by accelerometry) and targeted PA interventions that control for school clusters would fill a notable gap in the paediatric literature.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

24

Bell, J. A. "Metabolically healthy obesity : associations with physical activity, sedentary behaviour, and metabolic decline." Thesis, University College London (University of London), 2015. http://discovery.ucl.ac.uk/1472874/.

Full text

Abstract:

Background: Obesity is a major threat to public health given its strong links with cardiometabolic morbidity and premature mortality. One-third of obese adults are metabolically healthy, but little is known about modifiable determinants of this state or its progression over time. Aims: To determine whether physical activity and sedentary behaviour distinguish healthy from unhealthy obesity, and whether healthy obese adults have increased risk for developing metabolic ill-health and type 2 diabetes. Methods: Data were drawn from up to 5427 men and women participating in the Whitehall II cohort study. Normal-weight, overweight, and obese adults were considered healthy if they had < 2 of 5 metabolic risk factors (hypertension, low HDL-cholesterol, high triglycerides, high blood glucose, and insulin resistance). Associations of self-reported moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and leisure sitting time with prevalence and 15-year incidence of metabolic risk factor clustering were examined among healthy obese adults. Differences in accelerometer-assessed total physical activity were also examined between healthy and unhealthy obese groups. Metabolic risk factor incidence among initially healthy obese adults was described, and published risk estimates of incident type 2 diabetes were systematically searched and meta-analysed. Results: Neither high self-reported moderate-to-vigorous physical activity nor low self-reported leisure sitting was associated with health among obese adults. Higher total physical activity among healthy versus unhealthy obese adults was evident through accelerometer assessment only (p=0.002). After 20 years, 52% of initially healthy obese adults were unhealthy obese, with insulin resistance being most commonly incident. Meta-analyses of 8 studies indicated that healthy obese adults have 4.03 (95% CI=2.66-6.09) times greater risk of incident type 2 diabetes than healthy normal-weight adults. Conclusions: Higher physical activity rather than lower sedentary behaviour distinguishes healthy from unhealthy obesity. Healthy obesity is strongly linked with future insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes, suggesting that it is not a harmless condition.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

25

Smith, Lee. "Travel behaviour, physical activity and social and environmental correlates in young people." Thesis, University of Cambridge, 2013. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.648251.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

26

Warren, Lucie. "Keeping the balance : promoting physical activity and healthy dietary behaviour in pregnancy." Thesis, Swansea University, 2013. http://orca.cf.ac.uk/61838/.

Full text

Abstract:

Gaining large amounts of weight during pregnancy may contribute to development of obesity and is associated with poor outcomes. Therefore managing gestational weight gain is important to reduce the risk of complications. This thesis aims to explore clinical and personal management of gestational weight gain and to discover how pregnant women can be best supported to maintain physical activity and healthy dietary behaviours. This is achieved through a programme of research comprising three related studies. Study One explored the antenatal clinical management of weight and weight gain through one-to-one interviews with Antenatal Clinical Midwifery Managers across Wales (n=11). Findings showed wide variation in management of weight from unit to unit. Although midwives believed pregnancy to be a perfect opportunity to encourage healthier behaviours, many identified barriers preventing them discussing weight with women. In Study Two semi-structured interviews with pregnant women (n=15) investigated views on personal weight management during pregnancy. Again pregnancy was seen as an ideal time to improve health behaviours due to a perceived increase in motivation and many women identified specific goals. However, in the face of various barriers, it was apparent that the motivation which initially identified healthy lifestyle goals was unable to sustain this behaviour throughout the pregnancy. Finally Study Three looked at the feasibility and acceptability of a midwife-led intervention informed by the two preliminary studies. The ‘Eat Well Keep Active’ intervention programme designed to promote healthy eating and physical activity in pregnant women (n=20) was based upon the Self Determination Theory framework for enhancing and maintaining motivation and utilised motivational interviewing. Results indicated that the intervention was received well by participants who reported that it positively influenced their health behaviours. The ‘Eat Well Keep Active’ programme may be a suitable intervention to encourage and facilitate women to pursue a healthier lifestyle throughout their pregnancy.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

27

Pitkethly, Amanda Jane. "Examining the role of self-regulated learning in adolescent physical activity behaviour." HKBU Institutional Repository, 2015. https://repository.hkbu.edu.hk/etd_oa/222.

Full text

Abstract:

Introduction Physical activity (PA) engagement is highly beneficial for adolescents and although interventions are shown to be effective, participants often return to former PA levels once the intervention is removed. Adolescents may lack explicit training in psychological and behaviour change skills required to sustain PA behaviour changes, such as self-regulation. SR is a key process in psychological functioning and its failure can result in impulse control problems, such as a tendency not to engage in behaviours that require a delay of gratification such as physical activity. Purpose Self-regulated learning (SRL) is an approach that focusses on how to make improvements through a systematic method of learning how to adapt to ever changing environments, i.e. through planning, self-monitoring, effort, self-efficacy, self-evaluation and reflection. Study 1 examined the effectiveness of studies examining SRL variables in a PA context. Study 2 translated and validated an English language SRL questionnaire to measure SRL in a Chinese adolescent population. Study 3 assessed the contribution of SRL variables to PA in both Chinese and Scottish adolescent samples. In preparation for study 5, study 4 qualitatively assessed Chinese students’ motivation for and engagement in PA. Finally, study 5 taught SRL skills in a PA context with the aim of positively impacting on adolescent PA levels. Methods and Results In study 1 a systematic review of the literature was conducted. The majority of reviewed studies demonstrated a positive effect of SRL variables on PA. The review highlighted a lack of research conducted using SRL theory. Study 2 translated and validated a Chinese version of an SRL questionnaire with 315 (and cross-validated with 480) Hong Kong Chinese adolescents. The short SRL-SRS-C was found to be a sufficiently reliable instrument to measure SRL in a Hong Kong Chinese adolescent population. In study 3, a cross-sectional study of 480 Hong Kong and 411 Scottish adolescents was conducted to assess the relationship SRL and physical activity. Results revealed that adolescents from Hong Kong and Scotland do not engage in sufficient PA to achieve the potential health benefits that PA can provide. Significantly more use of self-monitoring, self-evaluation and reflection was associated with significantly higher LTPA in Scottish adolescents. In both samples, SRL was weakly but significantly associated with higher PA, and self-efficacy and reflection played significant roles this SRL-PA relationship. Study 4 conducted two qualitative focus group interviews and found that most Chinese adolescents only engaged in PA during limited physical education classes. Most students were knowledgeable of the health benefits of PA, however, academic pressures and the effort required to overcome PA barriers was too great. Students propose that walking more and felt that novel ways to encourage PA, such as through WhatsApp, were worthwhile. Finally, study 4 used a quasi-experimental design with three groups (total n = 98) Hong Kong Chinese secondary school students. Peers modelled SRL skills and the learning was prompted either face-to-face or through Whatsapp. Meaningful, but not significant, mean value increases in PA and SRL were found. SRL was weakly but positive and significantly associated with PA, and reflection emerged as the key SRL component in the SRL-PA relationship. Conclusions SRL and PA are weak, but positive and significantly associated. Importantly, reflection has emerged as a significant predictor of adolescent PA. Adolescents with better SRL and reflective skills may be more aware of their strengths and weaknesses and able to translate this knowledge into future action. Considering that SRL skills are amenable to training, further experimental research should focus on teaching SRL strategies, particularly reflection, and assessing their impact on PA. SRL research in the adolescent PA area is promising but is at an early stage. Therefore, further research is recommended before strong conclusions can be made.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

28

Moncion, Kevin. "Investigating the Physical Activity Behaviour and Exercise Capacity of Pediatric Cardiomyopathy Patients." Thesis, Université d'Ottawa / University of Ottawa, 2018. http://hdl.handle.net/10393/38184.

Full text

Abstract:

Background: Physically active lifestyles are important for health and quality of life across all stages of development. Exercise interventions have recently been incorporated as an effective strategy for adult cardiomyopathy patients, but have yet to be examined in children with cardiomyopathy. The overall goal of this pilot study was to provide preliminary data on whether there is a need to develop exercise interventions among children with cardiomyopathy. This study sought to characterize the moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) level, submaximal exercise capacity and physical activity barriers among children with cardiomyopathy. Methods: This study employed a mixed-methods approach. Children were eligible if they were between the ages of 5 to 17 years, had a medical diagnosis of cardiomyopathy (i.e. hypertrophic, dilated, or cancer induced), atrial septal defect, or had been identified as carrying a genetic risk for cardiomyopathy. Participants were excluded if they had physical activity contraindications, had a non-cardiac medical condition or disability known to influence physical activity, or if they underwent cardiac surgery within the preceding 6 months. MVPA was assessed using 7-day omnidirectional accelerometry. Submaximal exercise capacity was determined by intermittent treadmill protocol targeting 40% to 80% of predicted maximum heart rate. Physical activity barriers were identified through semi-structured interviews, which were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim for thematic analysis using Braun & Clark’s approach. Results: Pediatric cardiomyopathy patients (n=5) were compared to children who are genotypepositive but phenotype-negative for cardiomyopathy (n=5), children with simple congenital heart defects (CHD, n=8) and published data for Canadian children (n=1,300). Daily MVPA (48.2 ± 19.0 minutes) was variable but did not differ significantly between groups (η2=0.025, p=0.82) or from published data on Canadian children (t(17) = -1.52 p=0.15). Submaximal exercise testing revealed that children with cardiomyopathy may be able to participate in activities at moderate intensities (i.e. 4.5 ± 3.1 METs) at 150 beats per minute (bpm). Children with cardiomyopathy reported primarily disease-centred barriers to participation, including physical activity restriction and physical influences from the disease which were not reported by children who carry a genetic risk for cardiomyopathy. Conclusion: These novel data within this population group suggest that pediatric cardiomyopathy patients may have sufficient submaximal exercise capacity to participate in moderate physical activity, despite reporting disease centered barriers to physical activity. A diagnosis of cardiomyopathy may not preclude these children from achieving and healthy, active lifestyle, but their current level of participation is less than recommended for optimal health and cardiac function.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

29

Chen, Chun-Ming. "Understanding and changing physical activity behaviour in university students : an ecological perspective." Thesis, Loughborough University, 2008. https://dspace.lboro.ac.uk/2134/8112.

Full text

Abstract:

Studies have highlighted the prevalence of sedentary behaviours in the university student population and have noted the significant potential for the promotion of physical activity in educational settings for young adults. Following the epidemiological procedure and ecological approach, the main purpose of this thesis focused on the university student population to review the previous research results by a systematic review method (first study), to compare the differences between UK and Taiwanese participants' and relevant effective variables by using a quantitative study method (second study), to have a deeper understanding of the Taiwanese university students' physical activity behaviours by using a qualitative study method (third study), then to evaluate the efficiency of designed interventions in university settings (fourth study). The whole thesis applied the ecological approach to classify the survey variables' effect to university students' physical activity behaviours. A total of 55 published papers were reviewed and majority of studies were conducted in the US using a cross-sectional design. Finding variables consistently related to university students physical activity level were female gender(-), attitude self-efficacy perceived barrier (-), family support (+), physical activity and sport history (+). These survey variables were more consistent in the literature and corresponded to previous adults' study. Some survey variables linked to university student were also found in the literature but still need more studies for this target population to come to a robust conclusion. Seven days recall design measurement and stage of changes survey for physical activity levels were more identified and have been more frequent using in the reviewed papers. Also, more studies on different ethnicity, environmental variables and intervention with different methodology such as qualitative study method are needed to enrich the knowledge of university's students' physical activity behaviours.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

30

Hislop, Jane. "Accelerometry measurement of physical activity and sedentary behaviour in pre-school children." Thesis, Queen Margaret University, 2013. https://eresearch.qmu.ac.uk/handle/20.500.12289/7414.

Full text

Abstract:

This thesis is based on six studies which address questions around the use of accelerometers to measure physical activity and sedentary behaviour of pre-school children: are shorter epochs more accurate? Which epochs are most accurate? Are there advantages to using triaxial accelerometers? Which cut-points are most accurate? Are different generations of Actigraph accelerometers comparable? What is the recommended wear time to provide a reliable estimate of habitual physical activity and sedentary behaviour? Analysis of 7-10 day accelerometry data, collected from 31 pre-school children (mean (SD) age 5.9 (0.7) y), suggests that shorter epochs (15 s) result in significantly greater estimates of time spent in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in comparison to 60-s epochs (p <0.05). When compared against a direct observation method, Children’s Activity Rating Scale (CARS), with 32 pre-school children (4.4 (0.8) y) during 1 hour of free-play, 15-s epochs were more accurate than 60-s epochs. Comparison of the triaxial RT3 against a uniaxial accelerometer, suggests no advantage of the RT3 accelerometer. The Puyau et al. (2002) cut-points had the ‘best’ agreement with estimates of sedentary behaviour, light intensity and MVPA against the CARS. Different generations of accelerometers were not comparable, however, application of a correction factor to the GT1M data (7164 = GT1M/0.91) may improve comparability of total physical activity. Finally, analysis of 7 day accelerometry data from 112 pre-school children (3.7 (0.7) y) suggests that 3 days of 7 hours provides a reliable estimate of habitual physical activity and that inclusion of weekend days is not necessary. This thesis highlights the implications that methodological decisions can have over apparent estimates of physical activity and sedentary behaviour and has made recommendations for accelerometry use. Ideally, there needs to be a move towards consensus, as, only by adopting standardised approaches to accelerometry use, will comparison between study outcomes become meaningful.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

31

Igelström, Helena. "Physical Activity and Eating Behaviour Changes in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome." Doctoral thesis, Uppsala universitet, Sjukgymnastik, 2013. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:uu:diva-197595.

Full text

Abstract:

This thesis aimed at developing and evaluating a tailored behavioural sleep medicine intervention for enhanced physical activity and healthy eating in patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) and overweight. Participants with moderate or severe OSAS (apnea-hypopnea index ≥15) and obesity (Studies I-II) or overweight (Studies III-IV), treated with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) (Studies I-II) or admitted to CPAP treatment (Studies III-IV), were recruited from the sleep clinic at Uppsala University Hospital, Sweden. Semi-structured individual interviews were analysed using qualitative content analysis (Study I). Data on moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and sedentary time were collected with three measurement methods and analysed regarding the level of measurement agreement (Study II). Potential disease-related and psychological correlates for the amount of MVPA, daily steps and sedentary time were explored using multiple linear regression (Study III). Physical activity and eating behaviour changes were examined after a six month behaviour change trial (Study IV). A tailored behavioural sleep medicine intervention targeting physical activity and healthy eating in combination with first- time CPAP treatment was compared with CPAP treatment and advice on the association between weight and OSAS. According to participants’ conceptions, a strong incentive is needed for a change in physical activity and bodily symptoms, external circumstances and thoughts and feelings influence physical activity engagement (Study I). Compared with accelerometry, the participants overestimated the level of MVPA and underestimated sedentary time when using self-reports (Study II). The participants spent 11 hours 45 minutes (71.6% of waking hours) while sedentary. Fear of movement contributed to the variation in steps and sedentary time. Body mass index was positively correlated to MVPA (Study III). The experimental group increased intake of fruit and fish and reduced more weight and waist circumference compared with controls. There were no changes in physical activity (Study IV). The novel tailored behavioural sleep medicine intervention combined with first-time CPAP facilitated eating behaviour change, with subsequent effects on anthropometrics, but it had no effects on physical activity and sedentary time. Fear of movement may be a salient determinant of sedentary time, which has to be further explored in this population. The results confirm sedentary being a construct necessary to separate from the lower end of a physical activity continuum and highlight the need of developing interventions targeting sedentary behaviours specifically.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

32

Hobbs, Nicola. "Disability and physical activity behaviours : an application of theoretical frameworks." Thesis, University of Stirling, 2010. http://hdl.handle.net/1893/2339.

Full text

Abstract:

Background: The prevalence of disability increases with age; therefore with an aging population, interventions to reduce disability are crucial. This thesis adopts a behavioural conceptualisation of disability. The theoretical frameworks of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF), the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) and the integrated ICF/TPB model are applied to investigate disability and physical activity (PA) behaviours. The thesis aims to: (1) identify the factors involved in the prioritisation of patients for total joint replacement; (2) classify patient pre-operative expectations of total hip replacement (THR) and investigate the relationship between expectations and recovery after surgery, and; (3) test whether the TPB and theory-based interventions can predict and explain PA within individuals. Method: Five studies were conducted. In the first study, health professionals judged whether the items from two prioritisation tools measured each of the ICF constructs. In the second study, surgeons ranked patient vignettes, which differed by constructs from the integrated model, in order of priority for THR. In the third study, a large cohort of THR patients reported expectations of surgery pre-operatively. Health and functioning were also reported pre-operatively and 1-year post-operatively. The fourth and fifth studies were a series of experimental n-of-1 studies using diary methods assessing TPB cognitions and PA behaviours. Results: There is a lack of agreement between judges in relation to the content of many of the items from prioritisation tools. Behavioural and psychological factors can influence prioritisation for THR. The majority of patient expectations of THR addressed activities and social participation; however, the evidence for a relationship between expectations and recovery was limited. The TPB can predict PA within some individuals but the evidence in support of interventions to increase PA was limited. Discussion: The findings provide important clinical and theoretical implications for understanding disability and physical activity behaviours.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

33

Barwais, Faisal Awad. "Using technology to change adult sedentary behaviour, physical activity levels and total wellness." Thesis, Queensland University of Technology, 2013. https://eprints.qut.edu.au/64104/3/Faisal_Awad_Barwais_Thesis.pdf.

Full text

Abstract:

This thesis studied technology’s role in promoting and supporting active lifestyles through behavioural strategies to reduce sedentary time and increase physical activity. The five studies included (1) development of a self-report instrument quantifying daily sedentary behaviour and light-intensity physical activity; (2) establishment of instrument validity and reliability; (3) use of an online personal activity monitor to successfully reduce sedentary time and increase physical activity; (4) identification of positive differences in total wellness as related to high/low levels of sitting time combined with insufficient/sufficient physical activity; and (5) improvement of total wellness through positive changes in sedentary behaviour and physical activity.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

34

Hassan, Laila Asaed. "Physical activity and play behaviour of primary school children in England and Libya." Thesis, Liverpool John Moores University, 2011. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.546742.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

35

Orme, Mark W. "Physical activity and sedentary behaviour across the spectrum of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease." Thesis, Loughborough University, 2017. https://dspace.lboro.ac.uk/2134/25248.

Full text

Abstract:

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients are generally more sedentary and less physically active than healthy adults; putting them at increased risk of hospitalisation and death. For patients with mild-moderate COPD, physical activity appears to be reduced compared with apparently healthy adults but differences in time spent sedentary are less well established. Additionally, there is a need for a greater understanding of the correlates of behaviour in mild-moderate patients with much of the existing literature focusing on more severe or mixed stage patient samples and with many studies lacking objective behavioural monitoring, not adjusting for confounders and a paucity of data on correlates of sedentary time. Despite having mild-moderate airflow obstruction, these patients also report a range of symptom burdens with some individuals reporting severe symptoms. Subsequently, these patients represent a sub-set of individuals who may require lifestyle interventions. Therefore, factors associated with patients reporting more severe symptoms need to be identified to help understand how this phenomenon may manifest and be intervened upon. For patients with more advanced COPD who are admitted to hospital for an acute exacerbation behavioural intervention focussing on less intense movement may be a more suitable approach for reducing the risk of readmissions than more intense physical activity or exercise. To date no studies have specifically targeted reductions in sedentary behaviour in COPD. In addition, wearable self-monitoring technology may facilitate the provision of such interventions, removing important participation barriers such as travel and cost, but this has not been sufficiently examined in COPD. This thesis investigated: (i) objectively measured physical activity and sedentary time and the correlates of these behaviours for mild-moderate COPD patients and apparently healthy adults (Study One); (ii) factors associated with self-reported symptom severity and exacerbation history in mild-moderate COPD patients (Study Two) and (iii) the feasibility and acceptability of a home-based sedentary behaviour intervention using wearable self-monitoring technology for COPD patients following an acute exacerbation (Study Three). Methods: Study One: COPD patients were recruited from general practitioners and apparently healthy adults from community advertisements. Objectively measured moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), light activity and sedentary time for 109 mild-moderate COPD patients and 135 apparently healthy adults were obtained by wrist-worn accelerometry. Patients with at least four valid days (≥10 waking hours) out of a possible seven were included in analysis. A range of demographic, social, symptom-based, general health and physical factors were examined in relation to physical activity and sedentary time using correlations and linear regressions controlling for confounders (age, gender, smoking status, employment status and accelerometer waking wear time). Study Two: In 107 patients recruited from general practitioners, symptoms were assessed using the COPD Assessment Test (CAT) and Modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) questionnaires. Twelve-month exacerbation history was self-reported. Exercise capacity was assessed via incremental shuttle walk test (ISWT) and self-reported usual walking speed. Physical activity and sedentary time were obtained from a wrist-worn accelerometer. Study Three: Patients were randomised in-hospital into a usual care (Control), Education or Education + Feedback group with the intervention lasting 14 days following discharge. The intervention groups received information about reducing prolonged sitting. The Education + Feedback group also received real-time feedback on their sitting time, number of stand-ups and step count at home through an inclinometer linked to a smart device app. The inclinometer also provided vibration prompts to encourage movement when the wearer had been sedentary for too long. Feasibility of recruitment (e.g. uptake and retention) and intervention delivery (e.g. fidelity) were assessed. Acceptability of the intervention technology (e.g. wear compliance, app usage and response to vibration prompts) was also examined. Results: Study One: COPD patients were more sedentary (592±90 versus 514±93 minutes per day, p < 0.05) and accrued less MVPA (12±18 versus 33±32 minutes per day, p < 0.05) than apparently healthy adults. For COPD patients, self-reported dyspnea and percentage body fat were independent correlates of sedentary time and light activity with exercise capacity (incremental shuttle walk test) an independent correlate of MVPA. For apparently healthy adults, percentage body fat and exercise capacity were independent correlates of sedentary time and light activity. Percentage body fat was an independent correlate of MVPA. Study Two: ISWT (B=-0.016±0.005, partial R2=0.117, p=0.004) and years living with COPD (B=0.319±0.122, R2=0.071, p=0.011) were independently associated with CAT score. ISWT (B=-0.002±0.001, R2=0.123, p < 0.001) and vector magnitude counts per minute (VMCPM) (B=0.0001±0.0000, R2=0.050, p=0.011) were independently associated with mMRC grade. MVPA was independently associated with previous exacerbations (B=-0.034±0.012, R2=0.081, p=0.005). Patients reporting a CAT score of > 20 or an mMRC score of ≥2 had lower VMCPM, were more sedentary and took part in less light activity than patients reporting a CAT score of 0-10 or mMRC of 0, respectively. Patients reporting ≥2 exacerbations took part in less MVPA than patients reporting zero exacerbations. Study Three: Study uptake was 31.5% providing a final sample of 33 COPD patients. Retention of patients at two-week follow-up was 51.5% (n=17). Reasons for drop-out were mostly related to being unable to cope with their COPD. Patients wore the inclinometer for 11.8±2.3 days (and charged it 8.4±3.9 times) with at least one vibration prompt occurring on 9.0±3.4 days over the 14 day study period. Overall, 325 vibration prompts occurred with patients responding 106 times (32.6%). 40.6% of responses occurred within 5 minutes of the prompt with patients spending 1.4±0.8 minutes standing and 0.4±0.3 minutes walking, taking 21.2±11.0 steps. Discussion: Study One: COPD patients were less active and more sedentary than apparently healthy adults; however, factors predicting behaviour were similar between groups. Correlates differed between sedentary time, light activity and MVPA for both groups. Interventions to boost physical activity levels and reduce sedentary time should be offered to patients with mild-moderate COPD, particularly those reporting more severe breathlessness. Study Two: Worse exercise capacity, low levels of physical activity and more time spent sedentary are some of the factors associated with patients of the same severity of airflow limitation reporting differing symptom severities. These patients may benefit from both lifestyle and exercise interventions. Study Three: Recruitment and retention rates suggest a trial targeting sedentary behaviour in hospitalised COPD patients is feasible. A revised intervention, building on the successful components of the present feasibility study is justified. Conclusion: The findings from this thesis have contributed a greater understanding of physical activity and sedentary behaviour in COPD and can inform the development of tailored physical activity and sedentary behaviour interventions for patients across the grades of COPD severity.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

36

Nicholson, Sarah Louise. "The development and testing of a behavioural change intervention to increase physical activity, predominantly through walking, after stroke." Thesis, University of Edinburgh, 2018. http://hdl.handle.net/1842/29553.

Full text

Abstract:

Introduction Globally stroke remains the leading cause of adult disability. An aging population and a reduction in stroke case fatality has led to an increasing number of people living with stroke i.e. stroke survivors. The ability to perform important day-to-day activities, such as walking and housework, is frequently impaired in stroke survivors. Therefore, it has become essential to address the long-term needs of stroke survivors, prompting focussed research on life after stroke. A reduction in physical fitness after stroke may contribute to stroke related disability. It is possible to improve physical fitness by regular, structured physical activity. Improving physical fitness after stroke and increasing physical activity are aspects of life after stroke that are increasingly being researched. Although the evidence base for the benefits of physical fitness training is growing, research has indicated that benefits gained are not always maintained at follow-up. To facilitate the uptake and maintenance of physical activity after stroke, it is essential to understand why many stroke survivors do not undertake regular physical activity. Understanding this difficult concept will enable the tailoring of behaviour change interventions to promote and maintain physical activity after stroke. However, there has been limited work in developing theory driven behaviour change interventions to increase physical activity in stroke survivors. Therefore, the aim of this thesis was to develop and test a behaviour change intervention to increase physical activity after stroke. Methods In order to address the above aim, six interlinking studies were conducted within the development and feasibility stages of the MRC framework for the development of complex interventions. A systematic review (study one) examined barriers and facilitators to physical activity perceived by stroke survivors. This study showed a lack of literature in this area, and that the already published studies had limited generalisability to the UK stroke population. Therefore, it was deemed appropriate to conduct a qualitative study (study two) to examine the perceived barriers and facilitators to physical activity in the local stroke population. Both studies one and two highlighted the influence of self-efficacy towards increasing physical activity. As part of earlier work conducted prior to this PhD, there was previously unanalysed data on perceived barriers and facilitators to physical activity after stroke. These quantitative data encompassed specific questions exploring self-efficacy and intention to physical activity post stroke. In light of the evidence it was deemed necessary to analyse these data (study three). It was envisaged that the behaviour change intervention would incorporate a feedback device, so participants could clearly see how much daily physical activity they were undertaking. An opportunity arose to collaborate with a team at Newcastle University who had developed an accelerometer that incorporated an immediate feedback screen. Therefore, a device validation study was conducted as study four. Results from studies one to four were combined, with the use of the Theoretical Domains Framework, and the behaviour change intervention was developed. Two uncontrolled pilot studies (studies five and six) were conducted to determine the feasibility and acceptability of the behaviour change intervention to the stroke population. Results The systematic review included six articles, providing data on 174 stroke survivors. Commonly reported barriers were environmental factors, health concerns and stroke impairments. Commonly reported facilitators were social support and the need to be able to perform daily tasks. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 13 stroke survivors, at which point data saturation was reached. The most commonly reported TDF domains were ‘beliefs about capabilities’, ‘environmental context and resources’ and ‘social influence’. The quantitative study provided data from 50 stroke survivors. Intention and self-efficacy were high, with self-efficacy graded as either 4 or 5 (highly confident) on a five-point scale by [34 (68%)] participants, whilst 42 (84%) participants “strongly agreed” or “agreed” that they intended to increase their walking after their stroke. Ten participants were recruited to validate the new accelerometer. Mean time since stroke was 29 days (SD =27.9 days). The 10 participants walked a mean distance of 245 meters (SD=129m) and their mean walking speed was 0.79ms-1 (SD=0.34ms-1). The Culture Lab were unable to develop the accelerometer in the necessary time frame and therefore no accelerometer was available for trialling the behaviour change intervention. Therefore, pedometers were used to record step count during the behaviour change intervention. A total of four participants took part in the 12 week behaviour change intervention, over two study periods. All participants managed to increase their step counts during this time. The studies had problems both with recruitment and retention of participants. These issues have been discussed. Conclusions This work has enhanced the understanding of the barriers and facilitators perceived by stroke survivors to increase physical activity. This work has allowed the development of a theoretically driven, complex behaviour change intervention that was successfully trialled with a small group of stroke survivors. Areas of further research have been discussed.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

37

Mugwang'a, Jane Ziporah Akinyi. "Selected dietary and physical activity behaviour among a group of adolescents in Nairobi, Kenya." Thesis, University of Canterbury. Health Sciences, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10092/9583.

Full text

Abstract:

Worldwide, there is a growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The rise has coincided with the increase in prevalence of overweight and obesity. The ANGELO framework recognises the role of environmental influences in weight gain. In Africa, various environmental influences have led to shifts from a traditional dietary patterns and more physical lifestyles to a “Western” dietary pattern and low physical activity. The life course perspective posits that excessive body weight can persist from adolescence to adulthood, and increase the risk of NCDs. Among adolescents the school environment is a crucial setting for the development of and, or engagement in unhealthy dietary and physical activity behaviour. The aim of this thesis was to investigate in the school environment, the consumption of energy dense foods (EDFs) and energy dense beverages (EDBs) as are typical of a “Western” dietary pattern, and physical inactivity among a sub-group of adolescents in Nairobi, Kenya. Also, the sources of food in the school environment, and the attitudes to the importance of diet and physical activity for health were assessed. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 402 adolescents aged 13-19 years. The adolescents were recruited from schools that cater to students from households likely to be of at least middle-income socio-economic status. Results indicate that the majority of adolescents reported the consumption of an EDB (82.3%) and EDF (88.3%) at least once during the school day. Nearly half of the adolescents consumed a meal sourced from a school lunch program (45.9%). In terms of weekly consumption, the items that were reported as frequently consumed by the highest proportion of adolescents were sugar sweetened beverages (46.5%), and pastries such as biscuits and cakes (38.8%,). Both the occasional and frequent participation in team sports (50.5%) more common than individual (27.4%) and gym based workouts (26.4%). The majority (88.1%) of adolescents acknowledged the importance of diet and exercise for health. Rigorous measurement of diet and physical activity behaviour and knowledge and attitude of health behaviour in this thesis was limited. Also, the sample used was not representative of adolescents in Kenya. The findings of this thesis are preliminary and further research is recommended using a representative sample and validated data collection methods. Research of this nature can be used in the adoption of school food and exercise policies to promote healthy behaviours and, on a national level, the development of dietary guidelines for adolescents.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

38

Juszczyk, Dorota. "Motivational responses to physical activity and dietary policies : translating success from the smoking context." Thesis, University of Bath, 2015. https://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.665401.

Full text

Abstract:

Obesity rates are growing at an alarming rate and new solutions are urgently needed (WHO, 2010). This thesis aimed to explore the potential to translate some of the lessons learnt from the UK’s successful tobacco control approach to combating obesity, using Self Determination Theory (SDT, Ryan & Deci, 2000) as a theoretical framework to explore the mechanisms of policy level factors influence on individual motivation. This was explored in three studies using a mixed methods approach. Qualitative Study 1 aimed to explore people’s experiences of tobacco control and obesity policies. The results suggest that current tobacco and obesity policy climates are perceived as controlling and are not perceived as motivating for behaviour change. Study 2 tested the hypothesis generated in Study 1, that exaggerated images (i.e. morbidly obese figures) accompanying articles about the health risks of being overweight would prevent overweight people from identifying with these risks. The results demonstrated there was no effect on identification with the message, however such images cause individuals to visually underestimate the level of obesity associated with health risks. Study 3 pilot tested a campaign-style intervention which was translated from the tobacco domain. It involved a snack-swapping intervention designed to help people to increase their fruit and vegetables intake while supporting their autonomous motivation, and aiming to provide an online environment to normalise this aspect of healthy eating. Participants had higher intake of fruit and vegetables as a results of taking part in the intervention, however their intake of unhealthy snacks was not reduced. Applying SDT as a theoretical approach was useful as a means of understanding people’s responses to legislation, however the results emphasized challenges in implementing strategies which aim to create autonomy supportive climate at public policy level. New insights for policy development stemming from the three empirical studies have been outlined.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

39

Spangenberg, Elin. "Housing laboratory dogs and rats : implications of physical and social activity /." Uppsala : Dept. of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, 2007. http://epsilon.slu.se/2007103.pdf.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

40

Rao, Deepa Prema. "Metabolic Syndrome and Chronic Disease in Canada: The Role of Material, Psychosocial, and Behavioural Factors." Thesis, Université d'Ottawa / University of Ottawa, 2016. http://hdl.handle.net/10393/34416.

Full text

Abstract:

Introduction: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a risk condition describing a clustering of traditional cardiovascular risk factors. A number of risk and protective factors have been associated with MetS, and individuals with MetS are at a higher risk for developing chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. Objective: To contribute to the understanding of MetS in Canada, and to describe how it is a risk state through which material, psychosocial, and behavioural factors associate with chronic diseases. This was examined through three objectives: (i) to describe the prevalence and distribution of MetS; (ii) to examine potential pathways linking income and education with MetS; and (iii) to examine the interplay between non-movement behaviours (NMBs, namely sleep, screen time, and sedentary behaviour) and MetS. Methods: The Canadian Health Measures Survey (2007-2009, 2009-2011, ages 18 and older) was used for all analyses, which include logistic regression, multinomial regression, and calculation of standardized logit coefficients. Results: MetS was prevalent among approximately 20% of Canadian adults. It was significantly associated with chronic diseases, such as diabetes (11.2% vs. 3.4% among those with MetS vs. the general population). A social gradient in MetS was identified, and the behavioural risk factors of alcohol use, smoking, physical inactivity, and screen time were suggested to be partial mediators of this pathway. Findings demonstrated that not adhering to physical activity guidelines (150 minutes or more of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity per week) was associated with increased odds of MetS. A stepwise moderating effect of guideline adherence on screen time and sleep behaviours was demonstrated. Conclusion: MetS is prevalent in Canadian adults, and a high proportion of individuals with MetS have chronic conditions. Addressing the modifiable determinants of physical inactivity, excess screen time, alcohol consumption, and smoking may reduce the social gradient in MetS. Furthermore, adhering to physical activity guidelines may mitigate the associations of NMBs with MetS. The current thesis suggests that healthy behaviours are associated with lower risk for MetS, and therefore, possibly for future chronic disease.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

41

Gagnon, Jean-Christian. "Investigating the Behaviour Change Techniques and Motivational Interviewing Techniques In Physical Activity Counselling Sessions." Thesis, Université d'Ottawa / University of Ottawa, 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/10393/36474.

Full text

Abstract:

Background: In Canada, only 15% of adults meet the physical activity guidelines (Colley et al., 2011). As regular physical activity has been demonstrated to substantially improve physical and mental health (Naci & Ioannidis, 2013; Schuch et al., 2016), a wealth of physical activity promoting interventions have been developed and evaluated (Kahn et al., 2002; Prince et al., 2014). Physical Activity Counselling (PAC) is one of these and has been shown effective in increasing physical activity motivation and behaviour (Fortier et al., 2011). However, the active ingredients of PAC have never been reported in detail, thus limiting our potential for understanding its effectiveness and to allow for its replication. Recently, taxonomies have been published for characterizing behaviour change techniques (BCTs) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) techniques in interventions (Hardcastle et al., 2017; Michie et al., 2013). Due to its novelty, no studies to date have used the MI technique taxonomy to report interventions. Purpose: To investigate the behaviour change techniques (BCTs) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) techniques applied in PAC sessions delivered by student-counsellors. Methods: PAC 1 and PAC 2 sessions delivered by 11 student-counsellors were double coded for identification of BCTs and MI techniques, for a total of 22 video recorded sessions. Two trained coders rated the presence of BCTs and MI techniques using the Behaviour Change Technique Taxonomy v1 (BCTTv1) and the table of MI techniques. Inter coder agreement was assessed using Cohen’s kappa and the prevalence- and bias-adjusted kappa (PABAK) statistic. Results: Overall, 29 BCTs (on 93) and 27 MI techniques (on 38) were reliably coded across the sampled PAC sessions (Cohen’s k =.81, PABAK=.91). Popular BCTs included 3.1 Social support (unspecified), 1.1 Goal setting (behaviour), 1.4 Action planning, whereas OARS skills (i.e., open-ended questions, affirmations, reflective and summary statements) and 24. Emphasize autonomy were the predominating MI techniques. On average, 5.7 BCTs and 9.5 MI techniques were recorded per session. Conclusions: Findings of this study provide a first detailed report of a PAC intervention and have important implications for PAC training and replication. Future research in this area specifically looking at the quality of application of the techniques and the influence of use and quality on physical activity behaviour over time is recommended.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

42

McCormack, Gavin Robert. "Modelling the relationship between the built environment and psychosocial correlates of physical activity behaviour." University of Western Australia. School of Population Health, 2007. http://theses.library.uwa.edu.au/adt-WU2007.0183.

Full text

Abstract:

[Truncated abstract] The main purpose of this research was to conduct a series of studies with the aim of contributing information about methods for measuring and analyzing physical environmental attributes of neighbourhoods and the influence of these attributes on specific types of physical activity behaviour. Furthermore, this research examined the moderating affect of the objective physical environment on the relationship between cognitions and physical activity behaviours and the mediating role of the cognitions on the associations between the objective physical environment and physical activity. The research included secondary analyses of data collected as part of the Studies of Environmental and Individual Determinants of Physical Activity (SEID1 and SEID2: Corti 1998; Pikora 2003) and the Physical Activity in Localities and Community Environments study (PLACE: Leslie et al. 2005a; Leslie et al. 2005b). Demographic, cognitive, social and behavioural data from the baseline and follow-up surveys from SEID1 (Corti 1998), and objectively measured built environmental data from SEID2 (Pikora 2003) were analyzed. ... A stronger association between frequency of past trying and recreational walking was also found for respondents residing in neighbourhoods with more recreational destinations (β = 0.11), compared with fewer destinations (β = 0.00). These findings show some evidence that the built environment can affect exercise-related cognitions, which in turn influence physical activity. Findings of this and other research (Owen et al. 2000; Humpel et al. 2002; Saelens et al. 2003b; Foster & Hillsdon 2004; McCormack et al. 2004; Owen et al. 2004; Badland & Schofield 2005; Duncan et al. 2005; Heath et al. 2006) support the need to create supportive environments that encourage both recreational and transport-related physical activity. Providing more opportunities and a greater variety of destinations close to home could encourage physical activity participation, and may even assist some individuals to achieve sufficient levels to accrue health benefits. However, additional research is necessary to understand how both the perceived and objectively measured built environment influences physical activity and to provide evidence of temporal causality between environments, cognitions, and physical activity behaviour.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

43

Caudwell, Phillipa. "Individual variability in the impact of physical activity on appetite behaviour and body weight." Thesis, University of Leeds, 2008. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.505086.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

44

Babineau, Olivier. "Using accelerometry to evaluate physical activity and sedentary behaviour patterns in bariatric surgery patients." Thesis, McGill University, 2013. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=119678.

Full text

Abstract:

Background Sedentarism or prolonged sitting time is an emerging risk factor for obesity, independent of physical activity (PA). Bariatric surgery seems to be most effective form of treatment that works for severely obese individuals (Body Mass Index (BMI) of >40 kg/m2). Objectives The purpose of this investigation was to characterize with the use of accelerometers, daily steps/day and sedentary behavior (SB) by measuring time-spent sitting/lying in severely obese patients before and after bariatric surgery. Setting McGill University Health Center (MUHC). Methods Seventeen patients (58.5% of the patients were female) with a mean age of 46.5 ± 10.1 years, and a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 48.8 ± 6.2 kg/m2 scheduled for bariatric surgery took part in this study. ActivPal™ accelerometers were attached to the patient's upper leg and worn 24 hours a day for seven consecutive days. Mean steps, transitions from sitting to standing and hours of sitting/lying per day were measured before, and 3 and 6 months following post bariatric surgery. Results Prior to bariatric surgery, participants spent 18.6 ± 1.5 hours/day sitting/lying, representing over 75 % of their day. Patterns in total sitting/lying time did not significantly change at three or six months after surgery. Baseline accumulated steps/day averaged 6139 ± 2720 and did not increase across time periods. PA patterns did not increase on either weekdays or weekend days. Conclusions Given that PA and SB are believed to independently contribute to energy balance and health outcomes, clinician's and health professionals should intervene more rigorously to simultaneously reduce sedentarism and increase levels of PA to help bariatric surgery patients successfully manage their weight.
Contexte La sédentarité ou l'adoption de comportements passifs, tels que la position assise prolongée, ont récemment été associés comme facteur de risque de l'obésité, et ce, indépendamment du niveau d'activité physique. L'obésité morbide (IMC ≥ 40 kg/m²) implique plusieurs répercussions pour le système de santé et, présentement, la chirurgie bariatrique semble être le traitement le plus efficace. L'objectif de cette étude est de quantifier, à l'aide d'un accéléromètre, le volume d'activité physique (pas/jour) et les comportements sédentaires avant et après la chirurgie bariatrique chez des obèses morbides. Méthodes Dix- sept participants devant subir une opération au « McGill University Health Center » ont pris part à cette étude. L'accéléromètre ActivPal ™ fut attaché sur la cuisse du patient et a été porté 24 h/jour pendant 7 jours consécutifs. La moyenne de pas, les transitions de la position assise à debout et les heures passées aux positions assises ou couchées par jour ont été mesurées avant, à 3 mois et à 6 mois après la chirurgie bariatrique. Résultats À priori, 58.5 % des participants étaient des femmes, l'âge moyen étant de 46.5 ± 10.1 ans et l'IMC, à 48.8 ± 6.2 kg/m2. Les participants avant la chirurgie, en moyenne, ont accumulé 18.6 ± 1.5 h/jour aux positions assises/couchées, ce qui représente plus de 75 % de leur journée. Le montant total de temps passé à ces positions sédentaires n'a pas changé de façon significative à 3 et 6 mois suite à la chirurgie bariatrique. Le nombre de pas/jour total accumulé avant la chirurgie était 6139 ± 2720 et n'a pas augmenté à aucune des périodes de temps. De plus, leur niveau d'activité physique n'a pas augmenté en semaine ou en fin de semaine et ce durant la durée de l'étude. Conclusion En utilisant le port d'un accéléromètre basé sur l'inclinomètre tel que l'ActivPALTM, nous constatons que les comportements sédentaires et le volume d'activité physique n'ont pas changé suite à la chirurgie bariatrique. Comme l'activité physique et les comportements sédentaires contribuent chacun de façon indépendante à l'équilibre énergétique et aux paramètres de santé métabolique, les professionnels de la santé devraient intervenir plus rigoureusement afin de réduire la sédentarité et encourager des niveaux d'activité physique plus élevés dans le but d'aider les patients de chirurgie bariatrique à mieux gérer leur poids corporel.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

45

Zabatiero, Juliana Gomes. "Physical Activity, Sedentary Behaviour and Other Health Outcomes in People Following Restrictive Bariatric Surgery." Thesis, Curtin University, 2016. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11937/76725.

Full text

Abstract:

Two separate samples of obese adults scheduled to undergo restrictive bariatric surgery participated in two studies that comprised this programme of research. There were no changes from pre-surgery in measures of physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviour collected over the first 12 months post-surgery, despite large and significant weight loss. People who undergo restrictive bariatric surgery continue to have low motivation and experience barriers to PA, which can inform much needed interventions to optimise PA.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

46

Avery, Leah. "Changing consultation behaviour in healthcare professionals and physical activity behaviour in adults with type 2 diabetes in primary care." Thesis, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10443/2506.

Full text

Abstract:

Behavioural interventions targeting physical activity alone produce clinically significant improvements in long-term glycaemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes. Effective translation of physical activity behavioural interventions into routine primary care is hindered by the lack of evidence-based training resources to equip healthcare professionals with the knowledge, skills and confidence to deliver behavioural interventions to their patients. This PhD thesis describes the development and open pilot testing of an evidence-informed multifaceted physical activity behaviour change intervention ‘Movement as Medicine for Type 2 Diabetes’ targeting: (i) consultation behaviour in primary healthcare professionals (online training programme); and (ii) physical activity behaviour in adults with Type 2 diabetes (patient toolkit delivered by primary healthcare professionals). Informed by multi-methodological development work (workshops to identify information/support needs of patients and healthcare professionals; systematic review to identify effective physical activity behaviour change components; and usability testing), Movement as Medicine for Type 2 diabetes was piloted in two primary care practices over a two month period. A qualitative process evaluation and treatment fidelity assessment were used to optimise the intervention by identifying barriers and enabling factors to implementation and informed revisions to content and study procedures. Six primary healthcare professionals completed the online training programme and delivered the toolkit to participating patients (N=30) during diabetes review appointments. Transferability of behaviour change techniques to other areas of practice was identified as a salient facilitator for healthcare professionals, although several implementation challenges were identified (e.g. previous negative experiences with supporting patients to increase physical activity behaviour). Intervention components were delivered by healthcare professionals to a satisfactory level of fidelity. Patients reported physical activity monitoring resources and review sessions as particularly beneficial components of the patient toolkit. Movement as Medicine for Type 2 diabetes was found to be acceptable and feasible in the primary care setting. Open pilot methodology facilitated optimisation of the intervention ahead of a planned pilot randomised controlled trial.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

47

Haji, Mahmud Mardiah. "Understanding Bruneian adults' perception of factors influencing physical activity and sedentary behaviours using the integrated behavioural model." Thesis, Queensland University of Technology, 2016. https://eprints.qut.edu.au/101495/1/Mardiah_Haji%20Mahmud_Thesis.pdf.

Full text

Abstract:

This thesis is a qualitative study. It examines Bruneian adults’ views about physical activity and about the idea of sitting less at work, at home, during transportation, as well as during leisure time. The results have implications for the development of effective intervention strategies to increase physical activity and reduce prolonged sitting among the target population of Brunei public service employees. This thesis also evaluates whether a current questionnaire used internationally to measure physical activity is acceptable and appropriate for used with Bruneian public service employees.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

48

Grey, Elisabeth. "Using evolutionary theory to support lifestyle change and improve health in people at risk of developing chronic diseases." Thesis, University of Bath, 2018. https://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.767585.

Full text

Abstract:

This research sought to develop and test a health behaviour change intervention for overweight and inactive UK adults, aged 35-74 years, using the concept of an evolutionary mismatch to frame health information. The mismatch concept posits that human culture has evolved too rapidly for biological evolution to keep up, meaning the human body is poorly adapted to cope with the modern environment, predisposing us to chronic disorders. The first study explored whether using the mismatch concept to frame health information would be acceptable and engaging to target users. Mismatch-based text and graphic resources were shown to participants in semi-structured interviews. They had good acceptability, generated interest and seemed to provide a meaningful rationale for behaviour change. Following further development, the second study tested whether the resources could improve people's understanding of the effects of physical activity and diet on health and bring about change in theory-based cognitive determinants of behaviour. This questionnaire-based study found the resources enhanced knowledge and effected positive changes in most of the targeted cognitions. The mismatch resources were then developed into an online intervention also incorporating evidence-based behaviour change techniques. The third study evaluated this intervention in a pilot randomised controlled trial. The intervention did not lead to significantly greater improvement in physical activity or diet than a minimal intervention comparison, however the behavioural and health changes achieved in the intervention group were of meaningful effect size. Process evaluation provided partial support for hypothesised mechanisms of behaviour change. The findings suggest the mismatch concept could be a useful frame to stimulate initial interest and motivation in health interventions; combined with additional behavioural techniques this can help promote healthy lifestyle change. Further work is needed to test the efficacy of a mismatch-framed intervention among populations of different ages, ethnicities and religious beliefs.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

49

Tang, Mei Yee. "The role of self-efficacy in the initiation and maintenance of physical activity." Thesis, University of Manchester, 2017. https://www.research.manchester.ac.uk/portal/en/theses/the-role-of-selfefficacy-in-the-initiation-and-maintenance-of-physical-activity(74baf3ad-65a2-4f1c-80e1-217da5b02389).html.

Full text

Abstract:

Background: Self-efficacy is an important determinant of physical activity. Yet it remains unclear which behaviour change techniques (BCTs) are most effective at changing self-efficacy for physical activity. This PhD thesis aimed to explore issues surrounding which individual BCTs and clusters of BCTs that are most effective in initiating and maintaining changes in self-efficacy and physical activity behaviour across different adult populations through a systematic review with meta-analysis. This thesis consists of three linked papers which examined: 1) the individual and clusters of BCTs that are most effective in initiating and maintaining changes in self-efficacy and physical activity behaviour across all adult populations, 2) the individual BCTs which are effective in initiating self-efficacy and physical activity in two clinical samples (hypertension or heart disease, and pain or arthritis), and 3) the extent of theory use in interventions and examination of BCT use across theories. Methods: One hundred and eighty randomised trials which reported changes in self-efficacy were included into the review. Intervention content was reliably coded using the BCT Taxonomy v1 by two independent coders. From the 180 randomised trials, 204 comparisons were identified for the meta-analyses and moderator analyses. Meta-regressions examined whether the presence and absence of individual BCTs and intervention characteristics were associated with effect size changes for self-efficacy and physical activity. Chi-square analyses were conducted in Journal Article Three to examine for differences in BCT use across theories. Results: In Journal Article One, lack of meaningful clustering of BCTs was found. Interventions had small but significant effects on self-efficacy for the initiation of physical activity (d=0.26; 95%CI: [0.21, 0.31]) and physical activity (d= 0.21; 95%CI: [0.17, 0.26]) across all adult populations. Small effects were also found for the maintenance of physical activity self-efficacy behaviour, and these were non-statistically significant. In Journal Article Two, the interventions had small to medium sized significant effects on the initiation of physical activity self-efficacy and behaviour in hypertension or heart disease, and pain or arthritis samples. Few BCTs were found to moderate intervention effects on self-efficacy or physical activity in either clinical sample. In Journal Article Three, theory was not used extensively in interventions. Differences in the use of BCTs were found across theories, some of which mapped onto the constructs of the adopted theoretical frameworks. Conclusions: It seems that there are no specific sets of BCTs that are effective for changing self-efficacy and physical activity across all adult populations. In addition to BCTs, there needs to be further research into how communication styles and delivery characteristics can influence intervention effectiveness. It is also important to understand how BCTs and theory can be used optimally together, as there appears to be discrepancy between what theories proposes to be effective and what empirical evidence generated by this review suggests may be effective.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

50

Port, Julie. "Group versus solo physical activity in the reduction of stress, anxiety and depression." Thesis, University of Edinburgh, 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/1842/22954.

Full text

Abstract:

The physical and psychological health enhancing benefits of physical activity have been well established (US Department of Health & Human Services, 1996; Warburton, Nicol & Bredin, 2006) and reviews support the anxiolytic, antidepressant and stress reducing effects of physical activity, but it is unclear if group or solo physical activity is more effective in the reduction of these forms of psychological distress. A recent survey found that approximately a third of adults in Scotland do not engage in sufficient levels of physical activity recommended to achieve these benefits. The aim of this thesis was to investigate the effectiveness of group versus solo physical activity in the reduction of psychological distress (including stress, depression and anxiety) and factors involved in participation to promote greater engagement in physical activity. The first study issued questionnaires to members of the general population and university students. Inverse correlations were found between group physical activity and psychological distress in both samples. However a single positive correlation was found between anxiety and solo physical activity in the student sample, which suggests that group physical activity may be more effective in the reduction of psychological distress than solo physical activity. Low active individuals appeared to prefer solo physical activity to group, which may be due to lower perceived barriers. More active participants either preferred group activity or had no preferences between group or solo activity, despite also perceiving greater barriers to group than solo activity. The second study allocated university students to a group versus solo jogging condition intervention and found that psychological distress increased for those allocated to solo jogging, but did not increase amongst those allocated to group jogging, suggesting that group physical activity may protect against university related distress. Those allocated to group jogging engaged in (non-significantly) more jogging and engaged in significantly more moderately intensive physical activity throughout the intervention than those allocated to solo jogging. The final study compared group and solo physical activity using the Theory of Planned Behaviour and structural equation modelling. The model explained more variance in group physical activity than variance in solo physical activity. When the model was expanded, self-efficacy made a significantly greater contribution to intention in the solo physical activity model than it did in the group activity model, therefore promotion of group physical activity may not be as dependent on self-efficacy as solo physical activity. Perceived autonomy support (PAS) was included in the model, as guided by modification indexes, but only the group physical activity model was significantly improved by the addition of PAS; this may be useful for the development of group physical activity promotion. This thesis finds some support that group physical activity may be associated with reduced psychological distress and be more beneficial in protecting against psychological distress than solo physical activity. Promotion of group physical activity may benefit from reducing perceived barriers, developing PAS, and having less reliance on self-efficacy than required for the promotion of solo physical activity.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Physical activity behaviour'

Create a spot-on reference in APA, MLA, Chicago, Harvard, and other styles