Assessment of the transtheoretical model as used by dietitians in promoting physical activity in people with type 2 diabetes

BACKGROUND: The transtheoretical model of change (TTM) is an approach to behaviour change, which has been successful in increasing physical activity levels. This study examined the application of a TTM approach to increase physical activity in people with type 2 diabetes by a specialist dietitian. METHODS: Forty participants were recruited to either an exercise consultation interview (ECI) or a control group. All participants received a physical activity leaflet and those in the ECI group also received a one-to-one interview with a dietitian a week after their routine appointment. Both self-reported physical activity levels and stage of change were measured at baseline and after 6 weeks. RESULTS: Thirty-four participants (17 in each group) completed the study. Both groups showed an increase in physical activity levels. However, there was a significant difference in change of physical activity levels in the ECI group alone [F(1,32)=15.99;P