Exercise benefits and barriers in an extension-delivered diabetes prevention program

Abstract

Limited evidence of determinants of exercise (EX)/physical activity (PA) behavior change exists in the context of Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) implementation. Participants (n = 50, 57.3 ± 12.9 yo, BMI = 35.1 ± 6.2) were assessed for weight status, self-reported EX/PA behavior, and perceived benefits and barriers at baseline and completion of an Extension-delivered DPP. EX/PA behavior improved in response to the intervention, albeit statistically insignificant (p > 0.05). Perceived benefits of EX/PA were (1) enhanced physical performance and (2) reduction in risk of disease, whereas the exertion for EX/PA behaviors was the greatest barrier (all p < 0.05).