Chapter 2 Strategies for promoting physical activity & the Strategies of Change Model.

Benefits Of Physical Activity

Different population groups Age – (child, adolescent, adult, older age) Socioeconomic status Race Geographic location 

Barriers to Participation in PA Lack of time Lack of self- motivation Low self-efficacy Lack of self management skills Lack of encouragement & support Poor coaching Environment – safety / accessibility….

Strategies for promoting PA. Individual Approaches Population Approaches Assessing motivational readiness to be physically active Understanding the processes of physical behaviour change [fig 2.1 pg 37]

Mediators of Behavioural Change in PA Mediators are the mechanism through which a strategy is believed to influence participation in PA. Eg: Jump Rope for Heart – students learn about the health benefits of skipping and do different skipping tasks with the whole class. This can lead to increased participation in this PA.

Individual approaches to PA promotion                                         

The Stages of Change Model The 6 stages of change are: Precontemplation - No intention of considering changing their behaviour. Not aware inactivity is a problem. Contemplation - Acknowledging that they need be more active, but not yet ready to make a change. Preparation - Seriously getting ready to change, irregular exercise started. May determine goals.

The Stages of Change Model 4. Action - Starts an exercise program for less than 6 months that usually adheres to recommended amounts of PA. 5. Maintenance – Regularly meeting PA guidelines for at least 6 months. Termination – Active for over 5 years and very unlikely to change that behaviour.

Relapse You can relapse (move back stages) by reducing or stopping PA. Occurs mostly b/w stages 2 and 4. If stage 5 is achieved a person will rarely relapse further than stage 3 again.

Counselling Print & Web Based Media Print materials include: booklets, brochures & handouts – provided by rec. centres, GP’s, rehab centres, hospitals & chemists. Web based are sites on the internet – although are generally NOT effective as long term influences on PA. Advice given by a health professional either: One on one Telephone Automated telephone advice. Different strategies used (see slide 10)

Strategies used in counselling Assessing motivational readiness Matching processes of change with motivational readiness. Identifying opportunities to be active Contracting Enlisting social support Reminder systems Gradual programming Tailoring

Population-based approaches to PA promotion

Population-based approaches Environmental strategies Policy development Mass media

Environmental Strategies Tailor strategies to specific settings. Eg: country & city schools – different settings. Introduce new resources and facilities. Support with educational programs. Environmental and policy targets for PA interventions. (see table 2.6 pg 51)

Policy Development Policy can be Legislation or Organisational policies. Legislation – formal policies often governed by law. Eg: wearing a bicycle helmet. Organisational Policies – policies that are designed for specific oraganisations. Eg: sunsmart in schools.

Mass Media Promotion of PA to individuals through: TV, Radio, Billboards, Print Media, Commercials and the Internet. Eg; “Go for your life” campaign. **Mass media campaigns are important - but wont significantly impact on an individuals behaviour on their own.

Interventions for “at-risk” groups At risk groups include: disabled, low-income, racial & ethnic groups. Every population is unique – so it is important to develop different interventions in order to be successful.