We conducted a systematic review and qualitative synthesis of studies exploring people’s experience of physical activity maintenance.

Participants were motivated to continue being physically active when they realised the benefits for their health. Social support, in particular companion support, was a key component facilitating continued engagement. Findings specific to the maintenance of physical activity included reflexivity i.e. recognising how physical activity benefited their health, flexibility, and identifying as a physically active person.

What next?

When designing interventions to increase physical activity we need to include some of the components associated with maintenance e.g. creating a flexible approach to physical activity and helping people recognise the benefits of physical activity. Although we found people reported these things to be helpful, we also need to test these to see if they are effective.

Citation details

Madigan CD, Grimmett C, Sweet SN et al. Understanding Adult’s Experiences and Perceptions of How to Maintain Physical Activity: A Systematic Review and Qualitative Synthesis. Int.J. Behav. Med. (2024). DOI: 10.1007/s12529-024-10335-w

Acknowledgements

Professor Amanda Daley is supported by a National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Research Professorship award. This research was supported by the NIHR Leicester Biomedical Research Centre. Dr Shane Sweet is supported by a Tier 2 Canada Research Chair in Participation, Well-Being, and Physical Disability.