Abstract
Background: The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of evidence-based educational materials and access to local resources on physical activity (PA) levels, beliefs, and motivation (including self-efficacy) regarding PA during pregnancy in a rural setting. Methods: Information on PA levels (step counts, Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire) and beliefs and motivation regarding PA (main surveys: Exercise Beliefs Questionnaire, Protection Motivation Theory and Health Action Process Approach) were collected between 8 and 16 weeks gestation. Women from a rural community were randomly assigned to the PA group (PAG, n = 38) or control group (n = 32). The PAG participants received an evidence-based educational brochure and access (at no charge to them) to local fitness facilities. At approximately 34 to 37 weeks gestation, baseline assessments were repeated. Results: Sedentary time was significantly different between groups over time, with control participants increasing sedentary time and PAG participants decreasing sedentary time (P =.04). Sixteen women (42%) in the PAG utilized the resources provided (prenatal yoga being utilized most). Postintervention, there was a significant group × time interaction for Perceived Self-Efficacy scores; scores in the PAG remained consistent with baseline values, whereas scores in the control group decreased (P =.03). Conclusions: The intervention reduced sedentary time and maintained self-efficacy scores during pregnancy.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 947-957 |
Number of pages | 11 |
Journal | Journal of Physical Activity and Health |
Volume | 17 |
Issue number | 10 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Oct 2020 |
Bibliographical note
Publisher Copyright:© 2020 Human Kinetics Publishers Inc.. All rights reserved.
Keywords
- Beliefs
- Intervention
- Motivation
- Pregnant
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Epidemiology
- Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
- Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation
- Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health