Symptoms of specific anxiety disorders may relate differentially to different physical activity modalities in young adults

BackgroundAnxiety symptoms may be a barrier to physical activity (PA) such that persons who experience anxiety engage in less PA. The purpose of this study was to assess if symptoms of panic disorder, social phobia, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) or agoraphobia are associated with frequency, intensity or type of PA in young adults.MethodsData on lifetime anxiety symptoms and current PA levels were collected in self-report questionnaires in 2007–2008 from 880 persons aged 18–24 years participating in the Nicotine Dependence in Teens (NDIT) study. The associations between anxiety symptom subtypes and different PA modalities were investigated in five multivariable logistic regression models, one for each of five PA indicators (i.e., meeting moderate-to vigorous PA (MVPA) guidelines, meeting strength training guidelines, meeting both MVPA and strength training guidelines, participating in team sports, frequent walking) as outcomes.Results37%, 47%, 40% and 21% of participants reported lifetime symptoms of panic disorder, social phobia, GAD, and agoraphobia, respectively. In multivariable logistic regression, participants who endorsed lifetime GAD symptoms were statistically significantly less likely to meet MVPA guidelines (OR 0.5, 95% CI 0.4–0.8, p < 0.05), and MVPA and strength training guidelines (OR 0.7, 95% CI 0.5–1.0, p < 0.05). Those with agoraphobia symptoms were more likely to walk frequently [OR (95% CI) = 1.6 (1.1, 2.3)].ConclusionPA interventions may need to be tailored to people who have experienced specific anxiety symptoms to maximize adherence to PA recommendations, and increase the potential for health benefits from PA participation.     

Physically active vs. sedentary academic lessons: A dose response study for elementary student time on task

BackgroundPhysically active academic lessons are an effective intervention to reduce sedentary time and increase student physical activity. They have also been shown to enhance task engagement, as indicated by observations of attention and behavior control, time on task (TOT). However, it is not clear if the improved TOT stems from the physical activity or if it is the result of an enjoyable break from traditional instruction. If it is due to physical activity, what dose of intensity is required for the effect? This study was designed to test these questions.MethodsParticipants were 320 children (7–9 years) recruited from school districts in Central Texas in 2012. They were assigned by classroom (n = 20) to one of four conditions: 1) sedentary, standard lesson (n = 72); 2) sedentary academic game (n = 87); 3) low to moderate intensity PA (LMPA), academic game (n = 81); and 4) moderate to vigorous intensity PA (MVPA), academic game (n = 76). Measures included PA via accelerometer and TOT.ResultsMixed-method RMANOVA indicated TOT decreased following the standard lesson (p < 0.001), showed no change following the sedentary academic game (p = 0.68), and increased following the LMPA (p < 0.01) and MVPA (p < 0.001) academic games.ConclusionsWhile the sedentary, academic game prevented the reduction in TOT observed in the standard lesson, PA resulted in increased TOT. Future research should be designed to examine the potential academic benefits of the change in TOT.     

Prevalence of physical activity in European adults — Compliance with the World Health Organization's physical activity guidelines

BackgroundAdults are recommended to engage in at least 150 min/week of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (PA).PurposeThis study aimed to examine the level of compliance with PA recommendations among European adults.MethodsUsing data from European Social Survey round 6, PA self-report data was collected from 52,936 European adults from 29 countries in 2012. Meeting PA guidelines was assessed using World Health Organization criteria.Results61.47% (60.77% male, 62.05% female) of European adults reported to be engaged in moderate to vigorous PA at least 30 min on 5 or more days per week. The likelihood of achieving the PA recommended levels was higher among respondents older than 18–24. For those aged 45–64 years the likelihood increased 65% (OR = 1.65, 95% CI: 1.51–1.82, p < 0.001) and 112% (OR = 2.12, 95% CI: 1.94–2.32, p < 0.001) for males and females, respectively. Those who were high school graduates were more likely to report achieving the recommended PA levels than those with less than high school education (males: OR = 1.19, 95% CI: 1.12–1.27, p < 0.001; females: OR = 1.13, 95% CI: 1.06–1.20, p < 0.001).ConclusionAlthough about 60% of European adults reported achieving the recommended levels of PA, there is much room for improvement among European adults, particularly among relatively inactive subgroups.     

The effect of a school-centered multicomponent intervention on daily physical activity and sedentary behavior in primary school children: The Active Living study

The aim of the current study was to examine the effectiveness of a school-centered multicomponent PA intervention, called ‘Active Living’, on children's daily PA levels.A quasi-experimental design was used including 9 intervention schools and 9 matched control schools located in the Netherlands. The baseline measurement took place between March–June 2013, and follow-up measurements were conducted 12 months afterwards. Accelerometer (ActiGraph, GT3X +) data of 520 children aged 8–11 years were collected and supplemented with demographics and weather conditions data. Implementation magnitude of the interventions was measured by keeping logbooks on the number of implemented physical environmental interventions (PEIs) and social environmental interventions (SEIs). Multilevel multivariate linear regression analyses were used to study changes in sedentary behavior (SB), light physical activity (LPA) and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) between baseline and follow-up. Finally, effect sizes (ESs) were calculated using Cohen's d.No pooled effects on PA and SB were found between children exposed and not exposed to Active Living after 12 months. However, children attending Active Living schools that implemented larger numbers of both PEIs and SEIs engaged in 15 more minutes of LPA per weekday at follow-up than children in the control condition (ES = 0.41; p < .05). Moreover, children attending these schools spent less time in SB at follow-up (ES = 0.33), although this effect was non-significant. No significant effects were found on MVPA.A school-centered multicomponent PA intervention holds the potential to activate children, but a comprehensive set of intervention elements with a sufficient magnitude is necessary to achieve at least moderate effect sizes.     

Objectively measured physical activity,sedentary time and subclinical vascular disease: Cross-sectional study in older British men

Low physical activity (PA) and high levels of sedentary time (ST) are associated with higher cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk among older people. However, their independent contribution and importance of duration of PA and ST bouts remain unclear. We investigated associations between objectively measured PA, ST and non-invasive vascular measures, markers of CVD risk.Cross-sectional study of 1216 men from the British Regional Heart Study, mean age 78.5 years, measured in 2010–2012. Carotid intima thickness (CIMT), distensibility coefficient (DC) and plaque presence were measured using ultrasound; pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) and augmentation index (AIx) using a Vicorder. PA and ST were measured using hip-worn ActiGraph GT3X accelerometers.After adjusting for covariates, each additional 1000 steps per day was associated with a 0.038 m/s lower cfPWV (95% CI = − 0.076, 0.0003), 0.095 10^− 3 kPa^− 1 higher DC (95% CI = 0.006, 0.185), 0.26% lower AIx (95% CI = − 0.40, − 0.12) and a 0.005 mm lower CIMT (95% CI = − 0.008, − 0.001). Moderate and vigorous PA (MVPA) was associated with lower AIx and CIMT, light PA (LPA) with lower cfPWV and CIMT and ST with higher cfPWV, AIx and CIMT and lower DC. LPA and ST were highly correlated (r = − 0.62). The independence of MVPA and ST or MVPA and LPA was inconsistent across vascular measures. Bout lengths for both PA and ST were not associated with vascular measures.In our cross-sectional study of older men, all PA regardless of intensity or bout duration was beneficially associated with vascular measures, as was lower ST. LPA was particularly relevant for cfPWV and CIMT.     

Physical activity outcomes in afterschool programs: A group randomized controlled trial

IntroductionAfterschool programs (ASPs) across the US are working towards achieving the standard of all children accumulating 30 min of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) during program time. This study describes the two-year impact of an intervention designed to assist ASPs meeting the 30 min/day MVPA standard.MethodsUsing a two-year delayed treatment, group randomized controlled trial, 20 ASPs serving ~ 1700 children/year (6–12 yrs) were randomized to either an immediate (n = 10, baseline-2013 and 2 yrs intervention fall-2013-to-spring-2015) or delayed group (n = 10, baseline 2013–2014 and 1 yr intervention fall-2014-to-spring-2015). The intervention, Strategies-To-Enhance-Practice (STEPs), focused on programming MVPA in the daily schedule, training of staff and leaders, and ongoing technical support/assistance. Accelerometry-derived proportion of children meeting the 30 min/day MVPA standard was measured in the spring of each year. Mixed model logistic regressions were used to examine the change in the odds of achieving the MVPA standard. Analyses were conducted in 2015. Data were collected in one southeastern US state.ResultsImmediate boys (n = 677) and delayed girls (n = 658) increased the percent achieving 30 min MVPA/day from 35.9% to 47.0% (odds ratio [OR] = 1.88, 95% CI 1.18–3.00) and 13.1% to 19.1% (OR = 1.42, 95% CI 1.03–1.96). Immediate girls (n = 613) and delayed boys (n = 687) exhibited a nonsignificant increase from 19.1% to 21.6% (OR = 1.20, 95% CI 0.84–1.72) and 29.0% to 31.3% (OR = 1.13, 95%CI 0.80–1.58).ConclusionsSTEPs can have an impact on children's MVPA and time spent sedentary, yet was unable to fully achieve the goal of all children accumulating 30 min MVPA/day. Additional efforts are need to identify strategies ASPs can use to meet this important public health standard.     

Implementing classroom physical activity breaks: Associations with student physical activity and classroom behavior

ObjectiveTo investigate the relation of classroom physical activity breaks to students' physical activity and classroom behavior.MethodsSix elementary-school districts in California implemented classroom physical activity interventions in 2013–2014. Students' (N = 1322) accelerometer-measured moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) during school and teachers' (N = 397) reports of implementation and classroom behavior were assessed in 24 schools at two time points (both post-intervention). Mixed-effects models accounted for nested data.ResultsMinutes/day of activity breaks was positively associated with students' MVPA (βs = .07–.14; ps = .012–.016). Students in classrooms with activity breaks were more likely to obtain 30 min/day of MVPA during school (OR = 1.75; p = .002). Implementation was negatively associated with students having a lack of effort in class (β = − .17; p = .042), and student MVPA was negatively associated with students being off task or inattentive in the classroom (β = − .17; p = .042). Students provided with 3–4 physical activity opportunities (classroom breaks, recess, PE, dedicated PE teacher) had ≈ 5 more min/day of school MVPA than students with no opportunities (B = 1.53 min/opportunity; p = .002).ConclusionsImplementing classroom physical activity breaks can improve student physical activity during school and behavior in the classroom. Comprehensive school physical activity programs that include classroom-based activity are likely needed to meet the 30 min/day school physical activity guideline.     

Daily movement patterns and predicted 10-yr risk for a first atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) event using the pooled cohort risk equations among US adults

ObjectiveExamine the association between movement patterns and predicted risk of a first atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) event.MethodsData from the 2003–2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were used (40–79 yrs; N = 2421). Participants wore an ActiGraph 7164 accelerometer to create four movement pattern groups; Group 1: ≥ 150 min/wk of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and light-intensity physical activity (LIPA) ≥ sedentary behavior (SB); Group 2: ≥ 150 min/wk of MVPA and LIPA < SB; Group 3: < 150 min/wk of MVPA and LIPA ≥ SED; and Group 4: < 150 min/wk of MVPA and LIPA < SB. 10-yr risk for a first ASCVD event was estimated using the pooled cohort equations.ResultsAfter adjusting for age, gender, race–ethnicity and obesity, Group 2 (β = − 0.28; p = 0.44) was not significantly different than Group 1, but Groups 3 (β = 1.09; p = 0.01) and 4 (β = 1.44; p < 0.001) had a higher pooled risk score.ConclusionsThose in the least desirable movement pattern (Group 4) had the highest pooled risk score. Given the similar risk scores for Groups 1 and 2, future research is needed to determine if sufficient MVPA can counteract the potential consequences associated with an imbalanced LIPA:SB ratio (i.e., LIPA < SB).     

Empowering adolescents to be physically active: Three-year results of the Sigue la Huella intervention

ObjectiveTo examine the effects of a school-based intervention called Sigue la Huella (Follow the Footstep) on adolescents' daily moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA).MethodThis quasi-experimental, cohort study took place in four secondary schools in Huesca (Spain) during the 2009–2010, 2010–2011, and 2011–2012 academic years (students aged 12–15 years). Two schools were assigned to the experimental condition (n = 368) and two schools to the control condition (n = 314). Sigue la Huella was based on the social ecological model and self-determination theory. MVPA was measured for 7 days on 4 occasions using accelerometers. Data were analyzed with individual growth curve models.ResultsThere was a significant difference in linear growth rate of daily MVPA between the experimental and the control group, independent of study wave, type of school (public vs. private), grade level and gender (p < 0.001). Specifically, MVPA increased in the experimental group (β = 7.02, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.27 to 12.78, p = 0.017) and tended to decrease in the control group (β = − 5.26, 95% CI = − 11.17 to 0.65, p < 0.081). The observed increase was larger in boys than in girls (p = 0.003).ConclusionsSigue la Huella had a positive effect on adolescents' daily MVPA over three school years. Both genders benefited from the intervention, although boys to a greater extent.     

Joint effects of objectively-measured sedentary time and physical activity on all-cause mortality

ObjectiveExamine the joint effects of objectively-measured sedentary time and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) on all-cause mortality.MethodsThe present study included data from the 2003–2006 National Health & Nutrition Examination Survey, with mortality follow-up data (via National Death Index) through 2011 (N = 5575 U.S. adults). Sedentary time (activity counts/min between 0 and 99) and MVPA (activity counts/min ≥ 2020) were objectively measured using the ActiGraph 7164 accelerometer.ResultsThe median age of the participants was 50 yrs; proportion of men was 50.2%; proportion of whites was 53.8%, 18.7% for blacks; median follow-up was 81 months; and 511 deaths occurred over the follow-up period. After adjusting for age, gender, race-ethnicity, cotinine, weight status, poverty level, C-reactive protein and comorbid illness (summed score of 0–8 chronic diseases), and for a 1 min increase in MVPA and sedentary time, both MVPA (HR_adjusted = 0.98; 95% CI: 0.96–0.99; P = 0.04) and sedentary time (HR_adjusted = 1.001; 95% CI: 1.0003–1.002; P = 0.008) were independently associated with all-cause mortality. Further, MVPA was associated with all-cause mortality among those with greater (above median) sedentary time (HR_adjusted = 0.95; 95% CI: 0.93–0.97; P < .001). Sedentary time was not associated with all-cause mortality among those engaging in above median levels of MVPA (HR_adjusted = 0.998; 95% CI: 0.996–1.001; P = .32), but sedentary time was associated with increased mortality risk among those below median levels of MVPA (HR = 1.002; 95% CI: 1.001–1.003; P < 0.001).ConclusionsSedentary time and MVPA are independently associated with all-cause mortality. Above median sedentary time levels did not negate the beneficial effects of MVPA on all-cause mortality risk.     

Lethal factor antibodies contribute to lethal toxin neutralization in recipients of anthrax vaccine precipitated

A major difference between two currently licensed anthrax vaccines is presence (United Kingdom Anthrax Vaccine Precipitated, AVP) or absence (United States Anthrax Vaccine Adsorbed, AVA) of quantifiable amounts of the Lethal Toxin (LT) component Lethal Factor (LF). The primary immunogen in both vaccine formulations is Protective Antigen (PA), and LT-neutralizing antibodies directed to PA are an accepted correlate of vaccine efficacy; however, vaccination studies in animal models have demonstrated that LF antibodies can be protective. In this report we compared humoral immune responses in cohorts of AVP (n = 39) and AVA recipients (n = 78) matched 1:2 for number of vaccinations and time post-vaccination, and evaluated whether the LF response contributes to LT neutralization in human recipients of AVP. PA response rates (≥95%) and PA IgG concentrations were similar in both groups; however, AVP recipients exhibited higher LT neutralization ED₅₀ values (AVP: 1464.0 ± 214.7, AVA: 544.9 ± 83.2, p < 0.0001) and had higher rates of LF IgG positivity (95%) compared to matched AVA vaccinees (1%). Multiple regression analysis revealed that LF IgG makes an independent and additive contribution to the LT neutralization response in the AVP group. Affinity purified LF antibodies from two independent AVP recipients neutralized LT and bound to LF Domain 1, confirming contribution of LF antibodies to LT neutralization. This study documents the benefit of including an LF component to PA-based anthrax vaccines.     

Establishing school day pedometer step count cut-points using ROC curves in low-income children

Previous research has not established pedometer step count cut-points that discriminate children that meet school day physical activity recommendations using a tri-axial ActiGraph accelerometer criterion. The purpose of this study was to determine step count cut-points that associate with 30 min of school day moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in school-aged children. Participants included 1053 school-aged children (mean age = 8.4 ± 1.8 years) recruited from three low-income schools from the state of Utah in the U.S. Physical activity was assessed using Yamax DigiWalker CW600 pedometers and ActiGraph wGT3X-BT triaxial accelerometers that were concurrently worn during school hours. Data were collected at each school during the 2014–2015 school year. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to determine pedometer step count cut-points that associated with at least 30 min of MVPA during school hours. Cut-points were determined using the maximum Youden's J statistic (J max). For the total sample, the area-under-the-curve (AUC) was 0.77 (p < 0.001) with a pedometer cut-point of 5505 steps (J max = 0.46, Sensitivity = 63%, Specificity = 84%; Accuracy = 76%). Step counts showed greater diagnostic ability in girls (AUC = 0.81, p < 0.001; Cut-point = 5306 steps; Accuracy = 78.8%) compared to boys (AUC = 0.72, p < 0.01; Cut-point = 5786 steps; Accuracy = 71.4%). Pedometer step counts showed good diagnostic ability in girls and fair diagnostic ability in boys for discriminating children that met at least 30 min of MVPA during school hours.     

Spatial analysis of crime incidence and adolescent physical activity

ObjectivesAdolescents do not achieve recommended levels of physical activity. Crime is believed to be a barrier to physical activity among youth, but findings are inconsistent. This study compares the spatial distribution of crime incidences and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) among adolescents in Massachusetts between 2011 and 2012, and examines the correlation between crime and MVPA.MethodsEighty adolescents provided objective physical activity (accelerometer) and location (Global Positioning Systems) data. Crime report data were obtained from the city police department. Data were mapped using geographic information systems, and crime and MVPA densities were calculated using kernel density estimations. Spearman's correlation tested for associations between crime and MVPA.ResultsOverall, 1694 reported crimes and 16,702 min of MVPA were included in analyses. A strong positive correlation was present between crime and adolescent MVPA (ρ = 0.72, p < 0.0001). Crime remained positively associated with MVPA in locations falling within the lowest quartile (ρ = 0.43, p < 0.0001) and highest quartile (ρ = 0.32, p < 0.0001) of crime density.ConclusionsThis study found a strong positive association between crime and adolescent MVPA, despite research suggesting the opposite relationship. This counterintuitive finding may be explained by the logic of a common destination: neighborhood spaces which are desirable destinations and promote physical activity may likewise attract crime.     

Mode-specific physical activity and leukocyte telomere length among U.S. adults: Implications of running on cellular aging

BackgroundPrevious research demonstrates that physical activity participation is associated with longer leukocyte telomere length, with shorter leukocyte telomere length being a hallmark characteristic of cellular aging. What remains under-investigated, however, is whether there is a mode-specific association of physical activity on leukocyte telomere length, which was this study's purpose.MethodsData from the 1999–2002 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were used (N = 6474 adults analyzed). Leukocyte telomere length was assessed using quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Physical activity was assessed via self-report, with participants classified as meeting physical activity guidelines (≥ 2000 metabolic equivalent of task-min-month) for 9 separate physical activities, including aerobics (unweighted percent meeting guidelines: 2.98%; n = 193), basketball (2.0%; n = 129), bicycling (3.71%; n = 240), dance (2.30%; n = 149), running (3.09%; n = 200), stair climbing (1.33%, n = 86), swimming (1.85%, n = 120), walking (13.53%; n = 876), and weight lifting (2.61%; n = 169).ResultsIn a single multivariable linear regression model including the independent variables of age, gender, race-ethnicity, weight status, total cholesterol, C-reactive protein, total metabolic equivalent of task-min-month of physical activity and the 9 binary meeting physical activity guideline variables, the only mode of physical activity that was significantly associated with leukocyte telomere length was meeting physical activity guidelines from running (β = 0.06; 95% CI: 0.01–0.11; P = 0.03).ConclusionRunning-specific physical activity was the only evaluated physical activity associated with leukocyte telomere length, which may provide one potential mechanism (i.e., leukocyte telomere length) through which running-based physical activity may help to prevent cardiovascular disease and premature mortality.     

Inadequate diabetes knowledge is associated with poor glycemia control in patients with type 2 diabetes

ObjectiveTo identify the association between glycemia control with level of diabetes knowledge, diabetes education, and lifestyle variables in patients with type 2 diabetes.DesignCross-sectional analytical study.SiteClinics of the Mexican Institute of Social Security (IMSS), Mexico.ParticipantsPatients with type 2 diabetes.Main measurementsGlycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), glucose, and lipid profile levels were measured from fasting venous blood samples. Assessment of disease knowledge was performed using the Diabetes Knowledge Questionnaire (DKQ-24). Systolic and diastolic blood pressure was measured. Weight and abdominal circumference were measured, as well as body composition using bioimpedance. Sociodemographic, clinical, and lifestyle variables were obtained.ResultsA total of 297 patients were included, sixty-seven percent (67%) were women with a median of six years since the diagnosis of diabetes. Only 7% of patients had adequate diabetes knowledge, and 56% had regular knowledge. Patients with adequate diabetes knowledge had a lower body mass index (p = 0.016), lower percentage of fat (p = 0.008), and lower fat mass (p = 0.018); followed a diet (p = 0.004) and had received diabetes education (p = 0.002), and to obtain information about their illness (p = 0.001). Patients with low levels of diabetes knowledge had a higher risk of HbA1c ≥ 7% (OR: 4.68; 95% CI: 1.48,14.86; p = 0.009), as well as those who did not receive diabetes education (OR: 2.17; 95% CI: 1.21–3.90; p = 0.009) and those who did not follow a diet (OR: 2.37; 95% CI: 1.01,5.55; p = 0.046).ConclusionInadequate knowledge of diabetes, lack of diabetes education, and dietary adherence are associated with poor glycemia control in patients with diabetes.     

The association between discrepant weight perceptions and objectively measured physical activity

BackgroundSome individuals perceive themselves as being normal weight, despite having an excess body fat percentage (e.g., underestimate weight). Conversely, other individuals perceive themselves as being overweight, despite having a normal body fat percentage (e.g., overestimate weight). When perceived and actual weight statuses are incongruent, individuals possess a discrepant weight perception. The association between discrepant weight perceptions and engagement in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) has not been thoroughly investigated, which was this study's purpose.MethodsFor this cross-sectional study, data from the 2003–2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were utilized (N = 5462 adults). MVPA was assessed via accelerometry. Based on measured body mass index and whether participants considered themselves as overweight, underweight, or about the right weight, we classified individuals as accurate perception, overestimate weight (discrepant), or underestimate weight (discrepant). A negative binomial logistical regression was used to assess the association between discrepant weight perception (independent variable) and engagement in MVPA (outcome variable).ResultsFemales who said that they are normal weight, but were in fact overweight based on body mass index, engaged in 13% less MVPA (rate ratio = .87, 95% confidence interval: .769–.999, P = .05). Also, older adults (> 60 yrs) who said that they are normal weight, but were overweight based on body mass index, engaged in 23% less MVPA (rate ratio = .77, 95% confidence interval: .616–.965, P = .025).ConclusionDiscrepant weight perceptions were associated with less objectively measured MVPA. Interventions should take weight perceptions into consideration when designing and evaluating intervention impact.     

Effect of exercise intensity on depressive symptoms in women

Exercise has been shown to relieve depressive symptoms, yet optimal exercise intensity for treating depression has not been established. The mechanisms that explain the antidepressant effect of exercise also require investigation. The purpose of this study was to test (a) the effect of two different exercise intensities prescribed for aerobic training on depressive symptoms, and (b) a previously proposed psychological mechanism for this effect: self-efficacy. Sedentary women scoring ≥14 on the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) were randomized to one of two aerobic training groups that differed on exercise intensity (high [65–75% MaxVO₂ reserve] or low [40–55% MaxVO₂ reserve]), or to a stretching control group for 10 weeks. Main outcome variables included depressive symptoms (BDI-II) and self-efficacy (exercise self-efficacy [ESE] and depression coping self-efficacy [DCSE]), which were measured at study entry, 5 and 10 weeks later. Participants in all groups (high, n = 18; low, n = 18; stretching, n = 18) had significant reductions in depressive symptoms at Week 5 (p < .001) and Week 10 (p < .001). The BDI-II change scores did not differ significantly among the groups (p = .066). Follow-up analyses controlling for baseline BDI-II scores showed that the high intensity group had significantly fewer depressive symptoms than the low intensity and stretching control groups at weeks 5 and 10 (p < .05). There was no significant association between changes in aerobic capacity and changes in depressive symptoms (r = ?.099, p = .491). At 10 weeks, both ESE (p = .013) and DCSE (p < .001) increased significantly for the whole sample, with no significant group difference (p = .613 for ESE, p = .277 for DCSE). Controlling for baseline scores, the increase remained significant for ESE (p = .005) but not for DCSE (p = .629). Partial correlations showed significant negative relationships between both types of self-efficacy and depressive symptoms at Week 5 and Week 10 (p < .02). We concluded that both high and low intensity aerobic exercise, as well as stretching exercise were associated with reductions in mild to moderate depressive symptoms in initially sedentary women. Changes in depression were associated with changes in ESE and DCSE.     

Longitudinal associations with changes in outdoor recreation area use for physical activity during a community-based intervention

Outdoor recreation areas (ORA) are important resources for physical activity (PA) and health promotion. While past research has identified correlates of ORA use, few studies have examined predictors of longitudinal changes in park- and trail-based PA in community settings.Using data from a 6-month community-based walking intervention study, we examined cross-sectional and longitudinal predictors of PA in ORAs. Data were collected from baseline and 6-month assessments from participants (n = 295) in a group walking intervention in South Carolina; participants enrolled from January 2012-May 2013. A decomposition scheme was used to examine the cross-sectional and longitudinal predictors of average group ORA use for PA, including social support, self-efficacy for PA, perceptions of neighborhood environment, and accelerometer-based PA, adjusting for gender. On average, participants were 49.4 + 13.3 years old, 66.1% were Black, and the majority were women. There was a mean increase in group ORA use of 2.1 + 0.4 days/month from baseline to 6 months. Cross-sectionally, higher levels of the percentage of time in MVPA, self-efficacy, and social support were associated with greater group-average ORA use. Longitudinally, increased social support from friends and rating of lighter motorized traffic were associated with increased group ORA use. Additionally, longitudinal increases in percentage of MVPA and more favorable rating of the neighborhood as a place to walk were both associated with decreased group ORA use. Better understanding how social and physical environmental characteristics impact ORA use for PA can lead to more effective intervention strategies and warrants greater attention in future research and public health promotion efforts.     

Correlations between self-efficacy in resisting six temptations and dietary energy and macronutrient intake at each meal

Self-efficacy in relation to eating behavior for weight control is commonly defined as having the confidence to control urges to overeat in high-risk situations. Prior researchers have suggested that self-efficacy plays a mediating role in eating behavior for weight loss and maintenance. The current study examined the relationship between self-efficacy in resisting certain temptations and daily dietary intake at each meal. Participants were 83 men and 122 women registered at the health management website “Asken”. They administered questionnaires about self-efficacy and dietary records. As results of multiple regression analysis, self-efficacy in resisting negative emotions was negatively related to lunch energy intake in men (β = − 0.308, p = 0.023) and total (β = − 0.302, p = 0.003), breakfast (β = − 0.334, p = 0.004), and snacking (β = − 0.232, p = 0.022) energy intake in women. Also, self-efficacy in resisting rewards was negatively related to lunch energy intake in men (β = − 0.218, p = 0.040). In men, self-efficacy in resisting hunger was positively related to protein intake (β = 0.148, p = 0.021) and relaxation was negatively related to lipid intake (β = − 0.211, p = 0.009). Self-efficacy in resisting some temptations, especially negative emotions, and dietary intakes were negatively related. Future research is needed to confirm these results and assess the prospective effects of self-efficacy.