Abstract only, below. To read full article, go to:
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/564336

State of the Art Review: Promoting Physical Activity in Primary Care
Settings: A Review of Cognitive and Behavioral Strategies

Todd A. Smitherman, PhD; Darla E. Kendzor, PhD; Karen B. Grothe, PhD;
Patricia M. Dubbert, PhD

Am J Lifestyle Med. 2007;1(5):397-409. ©2007 Sage Publications, Inc.


Abstract

Despite recognition that physical activity is associated with numerous
health benefits, many Americans do not meet current guidelines for physical
activity. Primary care providers are in a unique position to influence
physical activity, though conflicting evidence exists regarding the
effectiveness of primary care-based physical activity promotion. The present
article provides a qualitative review of the literature on physical activity
promotion within primary care settings, focusing specifically on types of
cognitive and behavioral intervention strategies that can be implemented
into routine practice by primary care providers. The authors searched
MEDLINE and identified 16 studies that met relevant experimental,
intervention, and outcome criteria. Intervention types were defined as those
involving education, advice, self-monitoring, face-to-face counseling, and
telephone follow-up. Most interventions included multiple components. Within
the limitations of the review, results suggest that a variety of
interventions are effective at increasing physical activity and/or fitness
of middle-aged and older adults, among both men and women. More research is
needed to determine which interventions are most effective in which doses
and combinations, with ethnic minorities and younger adults, and regarding
long-term outcomes.