Article

Adults with long-term neurological conditions have low levels of
participation in physical activities and report many barriers to participation in exercise. This study examines the feasibility and safety of supporting community
exercise for people with long-term neurological conditions using a physical
activity support system. DESIGN: A phase II randomized controlled trial using
computer-generated block randomization, allocation concealment and single blind
outcome assessment. SETTING: Oxfordshire and Birmingham community Inclusive
Fitness Initiative gyms. SUBJECTS: Patients with a long-term neurological
condition. Interventions: The intervention group (n = 51) received a 12-week,
supported exercise programme. The control group (n = 48) participants received
standard care for 12 weeks and were then offered the intervention. MAIN MEASURES:
Physical activity, adherence to exercise, measures of mobility, health and
well-being. RESULTS: Forty-eight patients (n = 51) completed the intervention,
achieving 14 gym attendances (range 0-39) over the 12 weeks. Overall activity did
not increase as measured by the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (change
score mean 14.31; 95% confidence interval (CI) -8.27 to 36.89) and there were no
statistically significant changes in body function and health and well-being
measures. CONCLUSION : People with long-term neurological conditions can safely
exercise in community gyms when supported and achieve similar attendance to
standard exercise referral schemes, but may reduce other life activities in order
to participate at a gym.

Langue : ANGLAIS