Leisure-Time Physical Activity in People With Spinal Cord Injury—Predictors of Exercise Guideline Adherence

Int J Public Health, 2022 · DOI: 10.3389/ijph.2022.1605235 · Published: December 12, 2022

Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Public Health

Simple Explanation

This study examined the amount of leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) performed by Australians with spinal cord injuries (SCI) and whether certain factors were linked to engaging in LTPA and following exercise guidelines. The study found that just over half of the participants engaged in some LTPA, but only a small percentage adhered to recommended physical activity guidelines. Those with traumatic injuries and those who were unemployed were more likely to meet these guidelines. The researchers suggest that healthcare providers and policymakers should focus on encouraging LTPA, especially among women, older individuals, and those with non-traumatic SCI, as these groups tend to be less active.

Study Duration

March 2018 and January 2019

Participants

1,579 individuals with SCI

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Of the 1,579 participants, 58% performed LTPA and 13% adhered to recommended guidelines for weekly LTPA.
2
There was an association with being an “exerciser” based on the time since injury, a traumatic injury and a higher self-rating of health.
3
Where LTPA guidelines were met, adherence was most related to a traumatic injury and being unemployed.

Research Summary

This study investigated leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) and adherence to exercise guidelines among Australians with spinal cord injury (SCI), examining associations with sociodemographic and psychosocial variables. The results indicated that a minority of participants met LTPA guidelines, with factors like traumatic injury and unemployment being associated with greater adherence. The authors conclude that there is a need for increased focus on promoting LTPA within the SCI community, particularly targeting specific subgroups such as women, older individuals, and those with non-traumatic injuries.

Practical Implications

Targeted Interventions

Develop interventions specifically targeting women, older adults, and individuals with non-traumatic SCI to improve LTPA uptake and adherence.

Promote Early Exercise

Encourage and support positive exercise behaviors early after spinal cord injury to embed LTPA into daily lifestyles.

Address Employment Factors

Facilitate higher LTPA levels for employed individuals and encourage employment for its reported benefits without reducing total average LTPA volume.

Study Limitations

1
Large amounts of missing data in a portion of the modified PASIPD instrument.
2
Some participants under-reported the actual volume of LTPA undertaken.
3
The survey reported the number of days and minutes per week a participant undertook strength training, but not the specific sets and repetitions.

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