Examining long-term motivational and behavioral outcomes of two physical activity interventions

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2023 · DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2022.2033935 · Published: July 1, 2023

Simple Explanation

This study looks at how well two different programs, TEQ and ALLWheel, help people with spinal cord injuries stay active over a long period of time. TEQ uses video calls with a counselor, while ALLWheel uses a peer mentor with smartphones. The study checked in with participants 12-18 months after they finished the programs to see if they were still motivated and active. The findings suggest that these types of programs can help people with spinal cord injuries keep up with physical activity over time, which is important for their health and well-being.

Study Duration

12–18 months post-intervention

Participants

Sixteen TEQ and six ALLWheel participants

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
The TEQ intervention group maintained higher autonomous motivation compared to the control group at follow-up.
2
Both TEQ and ALLWheel participants showed medium to large effects on competence and self-efficacy related to overcoming barriers to physical activity.
3
A significant increase in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity was observed in ALLWheel participants from post-intervention to follow-up.

Research Summary

This mixed-methods study examined the long-term impacts of TEQ and ALLWheel interventions on adults with SCI, focusing on psychological needs, motivation for LTPA, LTPA participation, and participation experience. The results indicated that both interventions had some positive effects on maintaining LTPA, with TEQ showing higher autonomous motivation and ALLWheel showing increased moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. Participants emphasized the importance of autonomy, competence, and relatedness support from LTPA counselors and suggested incorporating booster sessions for continued guidance and motivation.

Practical Implications

Community-Based Programs

Community-based tele-rehabilitation and virtual rehabilitation approaches, informed by SDT, may assist adults with SCI to implement LTPA with long-term impacts.

SDT-Based Interventions

Current LTPA interventions among adults with SCI should incorporate strategies to foster a need-based supportive environment.

Booster Sessions

Future LTPA counseling interventions should consider the use of booster sessions to foster continued LTPA participation.

Study Limitations

1
A portion of the original participants did not participate in the follow-up study.
2
LTPA behavior was measured by self-report, which may have led to over- or under-reporting of LTPA minutes.
3
The small sample size of both interventions does not allow for generalizable conclusions.

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