The role of self determination in changing physical activity behaviour in people diagnosed with bowel polyps: a pilot randomised controlled trial

BackgroundThis non-blinded randomised controlled trial investigated the efficacy of a physical activity (PA) intervention underpinned by Self-Determination Theory (SDT). MethodsParticipants (n=31, mean age 69y [SD= 4.9]) diagnosed with bowel polyps were randomised to active lifestyle programme (ALP; N= 17) or standard care (SC, N=14). ALP received supervised exercise and counselling for 6 months. Both groups were followed-up at 12 months. Outcomes were change in PA and behavioural regulation. Data were analysed with intention-to treat.ResultsAt 6 months differences were observed for behavioural regulation in favour of ALP (P<0.05). PA differences were significant for leisure, walking, and vigorous in favour of ALP (P<0.05). ConclusionSDT can be an effective strategy for promoting PA behaviour change in this population but a larger trial is needed to further explore utility of SDT in this context.