A randomised controlled trial of three pragmatic approaches to initiate increased physical activity in sedentary patients with risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Physical activity is a major modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease, but it is unclear what combination of feasible approaches, using existing resources in primary care, work best to initiate increased physical activity.

Aim

To assess three approaches to initiate increased physical activity.

Design of study

Randomised controlled (2 X 2 X 2) factorial trial.

Setting

Four general practices.

Method

One hundred and fifty-one sedentary patients with computer documented risk factors for cardiovascular disease were randomised to eight groups defined by three factors: prescription by general practitioners (GPs) for brisk exercise not requiring a leisure facility (for example, walking) 30 minutes per day, 5 days per week; counselling by prac

SUBMITTER: Little P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC1314829 | biostudies-literature | 2004 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature