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Hagiu DP, Entemeyer L, Falcon A. Physical activity prescription in general practice in France: where do we stand? A cross-sectional study. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2025; 26:107. [PMID: 40229727 PMCID: PMC11995513 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-025-02815-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2025] [Indexed: 04/16/2025]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physical activity on prescription (PAP) is recognized as an effective preventive and therapeutic tool for various diseases, yet its application by general practitioners (GPs) varies widely. This study aims to analyse PAP usage practices among GPs in France, focusing on prescription frequency, targeted pathologies, and influencing factors. It also explores GPs' perceptions of facilitators and barriers to PAP. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted between October 23, 2023, and April 23, 2024, collecting data from a sample of GPs across France. A structured questionnaire was used to assess the frequency of PAP usage, target populations, as well as GPs' knowledge and perceived barriers to prescribing PA. Descriptive and analytical methods were employed to analyse the data, and logistic regression was used to examine associations between physician characteristics, PAP practices, and key barriers to prescribing. RESULTS Among respondents, 39.1% reported prescribing PAP, with a median prescription rate of approximately twice per month. Reduced sedentary behaviour (< 4 h) was significantly associated with a higher frequency of PAP (pOR 3.6, p = 0.044). Knowledge of a nearby sport-health facility strongly predicted prescription (pOR 3.7 p < 0.001). Prescription support tools positively influenced prescribing rates (pOR 1.6 p = 0.041). In contrast, GPs unaware of any tools prescribed significantly less. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that improving access to sport-health facilities and providing GPs with effective support tools could significantly enhance PAP practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dragos-Paul Hagiu
- Département de Médecine Générale, Faculté de Médecine Jacques Lisfranc, Université de Saint-Etienne, Saint-Etienne, France.
- CIC-Inserm 1408, CHU de Saint-Etienne, Saint-Etienne, France.
| | - Laurine Entemeyer
- Département de Médecine Générale, Faculté de Médecine Jacques Lisfranc, Université de Saint-Etienne, Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Aurélien Falcon
- Département de Médecine Générale, Faculté de Médecine Jacques Lisfranc, Université de Saint-Etienne, Saint-Etienne, France
- CIC-Inserm 1408, CHU de Saint-Etienne, Saint-Etienne, France
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2
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Grice A, Izon AS, Khan NF, Foy R, Beeken RJ, Richards SH. Discussions about physical activity in general practice: analysis of video-recorded consultations. Br J Gen Pract 2025; 75:e277-e284. [PMID: 39191440 PMCID: PMC11849690 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp.2024.0166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical guidance recommends promoting physical activity during general practice consultations. The frequency and content of physical activity discussions in UK general practice are poorly understood. AIM To explore the content of physical activity discussions during routine consultations between patients and GPs. DESIGN AND SETTING Secondary analysis was undertaken of video-recorded UK general practice consultations from the One in a Million study, which was conducted in the West of England. METHOD In total, 294 consultation transcripts were available; these were screened to identify consultations that included or omitted physical activity advice when recommended by National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidance. The content, quality, and depth of advice provided by GPs were scored to ascertain how meaningful the advice was. RESULTS Physical activity was relevant to management according to clinical guidance in 175/294 (59.5%) consultations. In 64 (36.6%) of these consultations, physical activity was discussed as part of clinical management; the depth of discussion was judged as 'meaningful' in 22 (12.6%) consultations. Although physical activity advice tended to be given most often for musculoskeletal problems, depth of advice did not appear to be related to the presenting problem. When physical activity advice was relevant and omitted, consultations prioritised another overriding presenting problem, or clinical management focused on another intervention. CONCLUSION Physical activity advice, following national guidance, was potentially relevant to more than half of GP consultations; GPs delivered advice of varying depth in a third of these consultations. Future work should explore ways of delivering physical activity advice effectively, efficiently, and equitably within the constraints of general practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Grice
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds
| | - Amy S Izon
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds
| | - Nada F Khan
- Exeter Collaboration for Academic Primary Care, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter
| | - Robbie Foy
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds
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3
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Baky I, Bourke A, Byrne C, MacDonagh J, Clifford A, Niranjan V, O'Regan A. How do doctors manage physical activity advocacy for patients and their own self-care? A qualitative interview study of general practitioners in Ireland. BMJ Open 2025; 15:e084301. [PMID: 39900412 PMCID: PMC11795391 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2024-084301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 10/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2025] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study explored general practitioners' (GPs) understanding of physical activity advocacy to patients and their own self-care, how GPs perceive their own physical activity behaviours, how their personal experience of physical activity affects how they promote it in practice and how they define the limitations of their role in this. DESIGN A qualitative design, involving online semi-structured interviews, was employed. Data was analysed by an interdisciplinary team of researchers using an inductive thematic approach. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Participants were GPs (n=21) and were recruited from an education and research network. FINDINGS A single meta-theme was identified-moving towards more physically active lifestyles through the art of medicine-with three related subthemes. Subthemes relate to how GPs determine the extent of their role and responsibilities, how physical activity promotion is adapted to the context and how 'what I' say is not necessarily 'what I do'. After many consultations, mutual trust can develop when the GP's role is clarified, and the GP can educate and support the initiation and maintenance of physical activity behavioural change by sharing personal experiences of physical activity behaviour. CONCLUSION Based on personal experience and enduring relationships with their patients, GPs are in a unique position to discuss appropriate physical activity with their patients and perform an important role in explaining and gaining access to physical activity for their patients. Support in the form of community-based resources and programmes as well as brief intervention skills could enhance GP ability to further promote physical activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibak Baky
- School of Medicine, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Alison Bourke
- School of Medicine, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Conor Byrne
- School of Medicine, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | | | - Amanda Clifford
- School of Allied Health, Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Vikram Niranjan
- Department of Public Health, Health Service Executive, Dublin, Ireland
- Assistant professor of Public Health, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Andrew O'Regan
- School of Medicine, Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
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O’Grady M, Barrett E, Connolly D. Understanding how intermediaries connect adults to community-based physical activity: A qualitative study. PLoS One 2025; 20:e0318687. [PMID: 39888933 PMCID: PMC11785267 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0318687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2025] [Indexed: 02/02/2025] Open
Abstract
Intermediaries facilitate connections to community-based services and supports, including physical activity and exercise groups, and are an emerging method to promote physical activity participation. However, their processes when establishing connections to community-based physical activities are unclear. The aim of this study was to explore the processes, practices, and procedures of Irish intermediaries when connecting people to community-based physical activity. This was a qualitative descriptive design study. Semi-structured interviews were carried out with n = 27 intermediaries from a variety of sectors-Health Promotion and Improvement [HPO], Local Sports Partnerships [LSO] and Social Prescribing [SP]. Four themes were identified using qualitative content analysis; 1) the processes of connecting to an intermediary, 2) connecting individuals to physical activity, 3) exiting from the intermediary service and 4) working in the local context. Intermediaries reported that they received referrals for individuals with physical, mental, and social health needs, but that referrals to improve physical activity specifically were low. They used a person-centred approach throughout their process, often addressing barriers to physical activity. However, only LSO and SP facilitated connections to physical activity, as HPO mainly focused on delivering smoking cessation support and services. Levels of support given and length of follow-up varied between LSO and SP, with the latter providing more intensive support. To facilitate their work, they developed extensive local knowledge and networks of partners, which enabled connections to a variety of community-based physical activities. Intermediaries may be an under-utilized resource to promote physical activity. Understanding the processes used in their interventions can inform future research, which is needed to investigate the effectiveness of intermediaries in improving physical activity levels and to inform future referral pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan O’Grady
- Discipline of Physiotherapy, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Emer Barrett
- Discipline of Physiotherapy, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Deirdre Connolly
- Discipline of Occupational Therapy, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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5
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Naisby J, Baker K, Skarparis K, Murdoch J, Clark A, Stirling S, Turner D, Swart AM, Hernon J, Saxton J. The sustainability of exercise following colorectal surgery: A qualitative study of participants in the PREPARE-ABC trial. Clin Rehabil 2024; 38:1404-1414. [PMID: 39257057 PMCID: PMC11528962 DOI: 10.1177/02692155241278936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to explore perceptions regarding the sustainability of exercise following participation in a pre- and post-colorectal surgery exercise intervention trial (PREPARE-ABC). DESIGN Qualitative interview study. Data were analysed using framework analysis and independently coded by two researchers. SETTING Six United Kingdom National Health Service Trusts. PARTICIPANTS Eighteen interviews (hospital-based exercise n = 9, home-based exercise n = 3, standard care n = 6) were conducted with patients 12-15 months after being randomised in the trial, after their 12 month appointment. INTERVENTION Individuals who participated in one of two exercise intervention groups (hospital-supervised or home-supported exercise) or a standard care control group of the PREPARE-ABC trial were invited to interview. RESULTS The exercise interventions were reported to influence participants' recovery and future sustainability of exercise behaviour change. Several participants continued to engage in exercise over a year after their surgery. Reasons for this included being engaged with exercise prior to diagnosis, psychological benefits of exercise and wanting to be engaged with something to help recovery. Perceptions about the sustainability of active lifestyles were influenced by confidence to engage in structured exercise or physical activity and beliefs about its potential to promote future wellness. CONCLUSIONS Sustainability varies among individuals and early assessment of physical activity engagement could be beneficial. Physical activity interventions immediately following surgery may be important for future engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Naisby
- Department of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - K Baker
- Department of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - K Skarparis
- Department of Nursing, Midwifery and Health, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - J Murdoch
- Department of Population Health Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - A Clark
- Norwich Clinical Trials Unit, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - S Stirling
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - D Turner
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - AM Swart
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - J Hernon
- Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Norwich, UK
| | - J Saxton
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Hull, Hull, UK
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Dunphy R, Blane DN. Understanding exercise referrals in primary care: a qualitative study of General Practitioners and Physiotherapists. Physiotherapy 2024; 124:1-8. [PMID: 38776568 DOI: 10.1016/j.physio.2024.04.348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physical inactivity is estimated to cost the UK National Health Service over £7.4 billion per year. Healthcare practitioners have a key role in supporting increases in physical activity (PA) levels, including referring to exercise referral schemes. To date, there has been little research into practitioner perspectives on referrals to exercise schemes. OBJECTIVES To explore the views and experiences of General Practitioners (GPs) and physiotherapists in relation to factors which influence referral and adherence to exercise referral schemes. DESIGN SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Qualitative study of primary care-based practitioners in Glasgow, UK. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 practitioners (seven GPs and seven physiotherapists). Interviews were recorded and analysed thematically. RESULTS Four themes are presented. Firstly, all people, including healthcare practitioners, bring inherent biases which are influenced by their background, experiences and worldviews to a consultation which impact their approach to PA promotion. Secondly, clinical time pressures are a major barrier to effective PA promotion. Thirdly, patient-led, compassionate care which seeks to fully understand a patient is the most vital component of behaviour change, with suggestions that promoting peer support and the use of personal anecdotes to normalise vulnerabilities might be helpful. Lastly, providing ongoing support for change was felt to be beneficial to PA promotion. This is often accessed through exercise referral schemes and improved by better collaboration between exercise providers and referring practitioners. CONCLUSION Practitioners believed exercise referrals could be improved with more targeted training in behaviour change facilitation, support for multidisciplinary working, and enhanced communication between the programmes and referrers. Additionally, supporting behaviour change requires time for compassionate care and fully understanding patients' motivations and beliefs. Lack of time was felt to be the greatest current barrier to effective PA promotion. CONTRIBUTION OF THE PAPER.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebekah Dunphy
- Department of Physiotherapy, NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde, Glasgow, UK.
| | - David N Blane
- General Practice & Primary Care, School of Health & Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Clarice Pears Building, 90 Byres Road, Glasgow G12 8TB, UK
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Leese CJ, Mann RH, Al-Zubaidi H, Cockcroft EJ. A movement for movement: an exploratory study of primary healthcare professionals' perspectives on implementing the Royal College of General Practitioners' active practice charter initiative. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2024; 25:112. [PMID: 38622556 PMCID: PMC11017589 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-024-02345-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Regular physical activity (PA) results in extensive physical, psychological, and social benefits. Despite primary care being a key point of influence for PA behaviours in the UK, research indicates poor application of PA interventions in this context. To address this, the Royal College of General Practitioners' (RCGP) developed and implemented the Active Practice Charter (APC). The aim of the study was to evaluate the perceived impact and acceptability of the APC initiative from the perspective of primary healthcare professionals (PHPs). METHODS An online exploratory cross-sectional survey was designed to assess the perceived impact, experiences, and challenges of the APC initiative, from the perspective of PHPs. The survey was distributed by the RCGP via email to 184 registered APC practices across the UK. RESULTS Responses were reviewed from staff (n = 33) from 21 APC practices. Initiatives used by APC practices included: educational programmes, partnerships with PA providers, referral systems, and infrastructure investment. Perceived benefits included: increased awareness about PA, staff cohesion, and improved well-being. However, staff felt the APC had limited effect due to implementation barriers, including: a lack of engagement, time, resources, and funding. CONCLUSION This is the first evaluation of any nationwide UK-based initiative engaging GP practices in promoting PA. Acknowledging the limitations in response rate, although support exists for the RCGP APC, the evaluation highlights challenges to its implementation. Nonetheless, the wide reach of the RCGP, combined with the cited staff and patient benefits, demonstrates the significant potential of the APC initiative. Given the need to address physical inactivity nationally, further development the APC offers a possible solution, with further research required to overcome the challenges to implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Callum J Leese
- Department of Population Health and Genomics, Ninewells Hospital, University of Dundee, James Arnott Drive, Dundee, United Kingdom.
| | - Robert H Mann
- Department of Public Health and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Hussain Al-Zubaidi
- Physical Activity and Lifestyle Champion, Royal College of General Practitioners, London, United Kingdom
| | - Emma J Cockcroft
- Department of Health and Community Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Royal College of General Practitioners, Exeter, United Kingdom
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Leese C, Mann RH, Cockcroft EJ, Abraham K. GP specialty trainees' knowledge and values towards physical activity: a national survey of Scottish trainees. BJGP Open 2024; 8:BJGPO.2023.0051. [PMID: 37652716 PMCID: PMC11169968 DOI: 10.3399/bjgpo.2023.0051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the known benefits of physical activity (PA), one-third of adults in the UK fail to meet recommended levels of PA. PA promotion in primary care has been shown to be effective at improving PA in patients but implementation of PA promotion by GPs remains poor. Research has shown a need to improve PA education in undergraduate medical education, but, to the authors' knowledge, no review of postgraduate medical education has been performed. AIM To assess the knowledge and values of general practice specialist trainees (GPSTs) towards PA promotion in Scotland. DESIGN & SETTING Cross-sectional survey distributed to GPSTs in Scotland. METHOD A mixed-methods cross-sectional survey, informed by previous research, was developed and distributed to all (n = 1205) GPSTs in Scotland in December 2022. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse quantitative data. A content analysis of free-text responses was also performed. RESULTS A total of 168 GPSTs responded, representing 13.9% of all GPSTs in Scotland. Of responders, 93.5% reported no previous experience in the subject of sports and exercise science and medicine. Overall, 38.9% of responders stated they were unaware of the current UK PA guidelines, with 33.9% unable to correctly identify the UK PA guidelines when presented with multiple choice options. In addition, 83.3% felt they had been inadequately trained to deliver PA advice during their medical training. CONCLUSION This study highlights a lack of knowledge, confidence, and education in PA promotion in GPSTs in Scotland. Given the importance of primary prevention, this urgently needs to be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Callum Leese
- School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Robert H Mann
- Department of Public Health and Sport Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Emma J Cockcroft
- Department of Health and Community Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, UK
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McCormick A, Pedmanson P, Jane B, Watson P. How do new runners maintain their running, and what leads to others stopping? A qualitative, longitudinal study. PSYCHOLOGY OF SPORT AND EXERCISE 2024; 70:102515. [PMID: 37717492 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychsport.2023.102515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
Many people who start running do not maintain their behaviour change. We used qualitative, longitudinal methods to explore and interpret the experiences of new runners and answer the question, "What experiences explain how new runners maintain their running or explain why they stop?" We interviewed 20 new runners (all White British, 14 women, 6 men) about their experiences; we interviewed 10 until they stopped running and 10 until they maintained running for 6-12 months (65 interviews in total). We also conducted nine participant observations at a running club, invited external reflections at a running club, and analysed six sets of participant diaries. Four themes were constructed using a reflexive thematic analysis: (1) Identifying a meaningful "why"; (2) "Life gets in the way" of running; (3) Learning that I can run; and (4) Opportunities are unequal and experiences contrast. The runners' reasons for running helped us to interpret changes in their experiences through time. Meaningful reasons helped runners to learn that they can run, prioritise running, and prevent life getting in the way. These reasons tended to be reasons to run, as opposed to reasons to be physically active, and they related to their identity, values, special memories, relationships, enjoyment of running, or a personal goal. Nevertheless, social inequalities like gendered experiences, wealth, and health differences meant that opportunities and experiences of running differed, creating more barriers for some runners. When runners faced substantial barriers, having a meaningful reason was helpful but it was sometimes insufficient for maintenance. The analysis illustrates how people's reasons for exercise influence their experiences through time, the dynamic nature of people's exercise barriers and facilitators, and the unequal nature of opportunities and experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alister McCormick
- School of Health & Wellbeing, Plymouth Marjon University, Plymouth, UK.
| | - Pille Pedmanson
- School of Health & Wellbeing, Plymouth Marjon University, Plymouth, UK
| | - Ben Jane
- School of Health & Wellbeing, Plymouth Marjon University, Plymouth, UK
| | - Paula Watson
- School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK; Made Up to Move Ltd, Liverpool, UK
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Eastwood D, Varney J, Pringle A, Vishnubala D. Physical Activity Clinical Champions: a peer-to-peer physical activity education programme in England. Br J Sports Med 2023; 57:897-898. [PMID: 37385717 DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2023-107269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- David Eastwood
- Moving Healthcare Professionals Programme, Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, London, UK
| | - Justin Varney
- Director of Public Health, Birmingham City Council, Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Andy Pringle
- Clinical Exercise and Rehabilitation Research Centre, School of Human Sciences, University of Derby, Derby, UK
| | - Dane Vishnubala
- Moving Healthcare Professionals Programme, Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, London, UK
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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11
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Turner E. The 5 K run in popular fiction: Reading about parkrun and couch to 5 K. Front Sports Act Living 2023; 5:1031934. [PMID: 36860736 PMCID: PMC9968722 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2023.1031934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent years have witnessed great interest in mass-participation running events (1), and organisations such as parkrun and fitness programmes like Couch to 5 K, have been instrumental in enabling participation for inexperienced runners. Concomitant with this has been a number of fictional works which centre on the 5 K run. I contend that exploring fictional texts can offer a fresh take on how movements such as parkrun and Couch to 5 K have entered the popular imagination. The four texts explored are Wake's Saturday Morning Park Run (2020), Park's A Run in the Park (2019), Boleyn's Coming Home to Cariad Cove (2022), and James's I Follow You (2020). The analysis is arranged thematically around the categories of health promotion, individual transformation, and community building. I argue that these texts frequently operate as health promotion tools and can help familiarise would-be runners with how parkrun and Couch to 5 K work.
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12
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Vishnubala D, Iqbal A, Marino K, Whatmough S, Barker R, Salman D, Bazira P, Finn G, Pringle A, Nykjaer C. UK Doctors Delivering Physical Activity Advice: What Are the Challenges and Possible Solutions? A Qualitative Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph191912030. [PMID: 36231332 PMCID: PMC9566007 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191912030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Despite strategies to enable Health Care Professionals (HCPs) to give physical activity (PA) advice to patients, this appears to be rarely done in consultations. The aims of the present study were to gain an understanding of doctors' awareness of current PA guidelines and to explore their opinions on barriers and solutions. A qualitative approach using semi-structured interviews was adopted. This study included 15 doctors currently working in the UK's National Health Service (NHS). A thematic analysis approach was used to analyse the transcripts. Four themes and twelve sub-themes were deciphered. Intrinsic factors limiting the delivery of PA advice included a lack of knowledge of PA guidelines and PA being an afterthought. Barriers to delivering PA guidance included a lack of PA education, time pressures, and patient engagement. Solutions included staff training, incorporating PA into undergraduate training, and encouraging staff to be physically active. Methods to optimise PA guidance included individualised PA advice, local exercise services and schemes, utilising online and visual resources, and motivational interviewing. This study provides an updated insight into doctors' opinions on barriers and solutions to discussing PA with patients. It is clear that further work is needed to ensure greater awareness of PA guidelines amongst clinicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dane Vishnubala
- Health Professions Education Unit, Hull York Medical School, York YO10 5DD, UK
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
- School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London SW7 2BX, UK
- MSK Lab, Imperial College London, London SW7 2BX, UK
- Correspondence:
| | - Adil Iqbal
- Bradford Teaching Hospital Foundation Trust, Bradford BD9 6RJ, UK
| | | | | | - Ruth Barker
- Health Professions Education Unit, Hull York Medical School, York YO10 5DD, UK
| | - David Salman
- School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London SW7 2BX, UK
- MSK Lab, Imperial College London, London SW7 2BX, UK
| | - Peter Bazira
- Health Professions Education Unit, Hull York Medical School, York YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Gabrielle Finn
- Health Professions Education Unit, Hull York Medical School, York YO10 5DD, UK
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Andy Pringle
- Sport Outdoor and Exercise Science, School of Human Sciences, Human Science Research Centre University of Derby, Derby DE22 1GB, UK
| | - Camilla Nykjaer
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
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