The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #60787

William J. Schiller, PhD, National Center on Physical Activity and Disability (NCPAD), University of Illinois at Chicago, 1640 W. Roosevelt Road, Chicago, IL 60608-6904, 312-413-1536, wjschill@uic.edu

One of the greatest challenges related to physical activity participation is long-term adherence. Many people, including individuals with disabilities, begin an exercise program but fail to maintain it because of a loss of interest, boredom, laziness, injury, pain or reduced expectations. Motivation is a critical factor in success. Research has shown that long-term adherence is more likely if the individual attributes successful outcomes to internal factors (self-efficacy) rather than external factors (e.g., the instructor, the exercise class). Attributions of this type can be facilitated by using individual self-control strategies including self-monitoring, goal setting, and self-reinforcement. People who acquire and use self-control strategies are less dependent on external programs and more capable of arranging for new support mechanisms when old ones no longer exist. A number of simple strategies have been demonstrated to be effective: 1) begin with a moderate exercise program to maximize chances of success and minimize chances of discomfort or injury; 2) set personal goals, then regularly assess and chart progress toward these goals; 3) recognize accomplishments of goals and mark the events by providing tangible rewards; 4) encourage variety and enjoyment in the physical activity program; and 5) encourage group participation for social support. This presentation examines ways in which information technology can be used to enhance these strategies in promoting participation in and adherence to regular physical activity by people with disabilities. Finally, the presentation will provide preliminary data on an Internet-based effort to promote and support regular physical activity by people with disabilities.

Learning Objectives:

• Recognize major barriers to exercise participation and adherence by people with disabilities.
• Recognize strategies that research has shown to be effective in promoting exercise participation and adherence.
• Identify methods by which these effective strategies can be enhanced through information technology in health promotion for people with disabilities.
• Review preliminary data on effectiveness of an Internet-based effort using information technology to promote increased participation and adherence to exercise by people with disabilities.

Keywords: Disability, Exercise

Related Web page: www.ncpad.org

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.