Background: Although physical activity provides multiple health and functional benefits to people after stroke, high levels of sedentary behaviour are observed in this population. The Falls After Stroke Trial (FAST) is comparing a tailored, home-based exercise program (LiFE), designed to support a long-term, daily increase in physical activity, with usual care (no active intervention).
Aim: To understand the perspectives of FAST participants about overall physical activity and specific exercise program participation. In particular, if exercise beliefs differ between the control and intervention groups.
Methods: Forty-nine participants were invited to participate in a survey at the 6-month assessment. It consisted of 43 items administered to all participants and an additional five items administered to only intervention group participants. The survey was either completed independently by the participant or with a researcher over the phone. Survey data were collected between July 2021 and April 2023.
Results: 38 participants (78%) completed the survey. Less than half of the participants (37%) were completing regular physical activity and 45% of participants were satisfied with their physical activity levels. There was no difference in days per week of moderate physical activity between the control and intervention groups (MD 1.3, 95% CI -0.4 to 3.1). On average, participants reported two barriers to completing regular exercise programs. The most commonly reported barriers were poor balance (45%), being too tired (37%) and poor weather (32%). Intervention group participants reported that the LiFE program increased their desire (87%) and made it easier for them (91%) to be more physically active.
Conclusion: Although most participants agreed that physical activity is beneficial for health and wellbeing, less than half were completing regular physical activity. Intervention group participants reported that a habit-forming exercise intervention made them want to be more active and made it easier for them to do so.