RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIALS OF PHYSICAL-ACTIVITY PROMOTION IN FREE-LIVING POPULATIONS - A REVIEW

Objectives - To review evidence on the effectiveness of trials of phys ical activity promotion in healthy, free living adults. To identify th e more effective intervention programmes. Methods - Computerised datab ases and references were searched. Experts were contacted and asked fo r information about existing work. Inclusion criteria - Randomised con trolled trials of healthy, free living adult subjects, where exercise behaviour was the dependent variable were included.Conclusions - Ten t rials were identified. The small number of trials limits the strength of any conclusions and highlights the need for more research. No UK ba sed studies were found. Previously sedentary adults can increase activ ity levels and sustain them. Promotion of these changes requires perso nal instruction, continued support, and exercise of moderate intensity which does not depend on attendance at a facility. The exercise shoul d be easily included into an existing lifestyle and should be enjoyabl e. Walking is the exercise most likely to fulfil these criteria.