Start Date
17-6-2025 3:00 PM
End Date
17-6-2025 4:30 PM
Abstract
Introduction
Participation in physical activity for individuals with disabilities is often hindered by barriers across multiple levels of the socio-ecological model. To promote socioemotional and physical health in underserved communities, a two-part 6-week group fitness intervention was delivered to members of a local senior center: 1) group online fitness (LOF) and 2) active virtual reality gaming (VR). This study examined participant perspectives regarding implementation, specifically facilitators, barriers, and lessons learned.
Method
Participants included adults with disabilities and/or chronic health conditions from an underserved community. One-on-one semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight of the 10 program participants. Interview questions were informed by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) and focused on perceptions of key factors influencing implementation of the two programs. Interviews (24-64 minutes, M = 41 minutes) were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using deductive content analysis.
Results
Themes aligned with two of the five CFIR domains (Innovation and Outer Setting): Adaptability of the Intervention, No-Cost Program, Program Design, Local Attitudes, and Tension for Change. Participants highlighted the programs’ adaptability to diverve physical abilities, low cost, and social engagement as key facilitators. Barriers included cultural resistance to VR and limited community resources. Lessons emphasized the need for more accessible fitness opportunities in the community.
Conclusions
Findings highlight the importance of creating new opportunities to thrive and promoting inclusivity in physical activity for underserved communities. Addressing community concerns and expanding accessibility can support long-term program sustainability.
Recommended Citation
Neal, Whitney N. and Malone, Laurie A. PhD, "Participant Insights on Fitness Program Implementation in an Underserved Community" (2025). International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness. 67.
https://sword.mtu.ie/isapa/2025/day2/67
Participant Insights on Fitness Program Implementation in an Underserved Community
Introduction
Participation in physical activity for individuals with disabilities is often hindered by barriers across multiple levels of the socio-ecological model. To promote socioemotional and physical health in underserved communities, a two-part 6-week group fitness intervention was delivered to members of a local senior center: 1) group online fitness (LOF) and 2) active virtual reality gaming (VR). This study examined participant perspectives regarding implementation, specifically facilitators, barriers, and lessons learned.
Method
Participants included adults with disabilities and/or chronic health conditions from an underserved community. One-on-one semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight of the 10 program participants. Interview questions were informed by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) and focused on perceptions of key factors influencing implementation of the two programs. Interviews (24-64 minutes, M = 41 minutes) were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using deductive content analysis.
Results
Themes aligned with two of the five CFIR domains (Innovation and Outer Setting): Adaptability of the Intervention, No-Cost Program, Program Design, Local Attitudes, and Tension for Change. Participants highlighted the programs’ adaptability to diverve physical abilities, low cost, and social engagement as key facilitators. Barriers included cultural resistance to VR and limited community resources. Lessons emphasized the need for more accessible fitness opportunities in the community.
Conclusions
Findings highlight the importance of creating new opportunities to thrive and promoting inclusivity in physical activity for underserved communities. Addressing community concerns and expanding accessibility can support long-term program sustainability.