The effects of behavioural counselling on strength training participation: results from an Australian community-based exercise intervention
Adoption and maintenance of gym-based strength training in the community setting in adults with excess weight or type 2 diabetes: a randomized controlled trial.
Title | Adoption and maintenance of gym-based strength training in the community setting in adults with excess weight or type 2 diabetes: a randomized controlled trial. |
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Authors | Teychenne M et al., |
Journal | International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity |
Impact Factor | 4.32 |
Web Link | Click here |
Year | 2015 |
Why they did it?
Experimental studies have shown that strength training (ST) improves the ability of muscles to metabolise glucose (sugar). This is important because high levels of glucose result in increased risk of type 2 diabetes. However, at the population level very few adults are doing regular ST. It is estimated that 15% of Australian adults meet the ST guidelines of 2 sessions per week (1). Behavioural counselling is a technique which is used to encourage the adoption of a favourable health-related behaviour (e.g. smoking cessation, healthy eating). Behavioural counselling involves working with a person to set goals, provide support and incentives to remain engaged in a health-related behaviour. At present, no studies have assessed the effects of behavioural counselling on ST participation. Therefore the aim of this study was to examine if behavioural counselling was effective in the adoption and maintenance ST among adults with or, at risk of type 2 diabetes.
How they did it?
In this 12-month randomized controlled trial a total of 318 community-based adults, (59% women, mean age = 38yrs) who had, or were at risk of type 2 diabetes were recruited. Participants were randomised into two groups; (a) Standard Intervention (SI) (n=156), and (b) Enhanced Intervention (n=162). In brief, the SI Group were initially given a ST program which they were encouraged to undertake 3 times per week for the 12-month study period. The EI group were given the same program, but in contrast received behavioural counselling, which included regular motivational phone calls, prizes and newsletter throughout the 12-month study period. The intervention was run out of several community-based fitness centres and was delivered by registered fitness trainers. Measures were taken at three time-points; baseline, 6- and 12-months for adherence to the program, muscle strength, glycated haemoglobin levels (a biomarker for type 2 diabetes), deity quality and general health and well-being.
What they found?
The key finding was that, when compared to the SI group (no behavioural counselling), those within the EI group (behavioural counselling) were 3.3 times more likely to adopt and maintain ST during the 12-month intervention. However, when assessing glucose control, favourable outcomes were only shown among those who had type 2 diabetes. Weight reduction was greater in the EI group when compared to the SI group. Inconsistent findings were noted with changes in muscle strength. The authors speculate that the study lack sufficient numbers to detect a change in many of the outcomes assessed.
Ok, what does this mean to me?
Although these results were hampered by a lack of statistical power, this study showed that behavioural counselling was effective in the adoption and maintenance of ST among a sample of community dwelling adults. When prescribing ST, trainers should regularly encourage clients to keep up their training and provide regular feedback and support.
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