An integrated motivational interviewing and cognitive-behavioural intervention promoting physical activity maintenance for adults with chronic health conditions: A feasibility study

Objectives: Physical activity (PA) is recommended for managing chronic health conditions but is rarely maintained. This feasibility study aimed to evaluate the preliminary efficacy of a Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral (MI-CB) intervention for long-term PA for adults with chronic health conditions. Methods: Participants (N=37) with stable conditions (e.g. diabetes) were randomized into a three-month MI-CB group (N=20) or usual care (N=17) after completing a Physical Activity Referral Scheme. Participants completed PA (e.g. average steps per day and kcal expenditure), psychological (e.g. self-efficacy) and epidemiological (e.g. BMI) standardized measures at baseline, three and six-months follow-up.Treatment fidelity and feasibility were assessed. Results: Thirty-five participants completed the study (96% retention). The MI-CB group maintained kcal expenditure at three (p=0.009) and six months (p=0.009). Exercise barrier self-efficacy (p = 0.03), physical (p = 0.02) and psychological (p = 0.01) PA experiences were increased at three months only. No difference was found for average steps/day, social support, coping skills and epidemiological factors. Discussion: This is the first study to demonstrate the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of MI-CB interventions for promoting PA maintenance in a clinical population. A large-scale trial with a longer follow-up (≥ 6 months) is warranted with treatment fidelity assessment.