The purpose of this study is to assess the comparative effects of two different ways of enhancing long-term adherence to and benefits associated with participation in the evidence-based, Fit and Strong multi-component exercise intervention for older persons with lower extremity osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common condition affecting older people today. It is the leading cause of disability among older people and its impact is projected to increase substantially with the aging of the U.S population from 43 million currently to 60 million by 2020.

Promising 2- and 6-month outcomes have recently been reported from a randomized trial of a multi-component exercise intervention targeted at older adults with lower extremity OA. The Fit and Strong intervention, developed and tested as part of the Midwest Roybal Center for Health Maintenance, coupled strength training and aerobic walking with health education for sustained behavior change. Improvements have been found in confidence in ability to exercise, confidence in ability to continue exercising over time, lower extremity stiffness, lower extremity pain, and 6-minute distance walk. Importantly, the average adherence rate in the people who participated in the exercise intervention at six months was twice that reported by controls.

The specific aims of this study are to use a multi-site randomized controlled clinical trial to replicate the Fit and Strong intervention and to test the comparative effectiveness of a negotiated/tailored follow-up maintenance strategy vs. a mainstreaming, facility-based maintenance strategy, both of which will be tested with and without telephone reinforcement as an enhancement.

All enrolled participants will participate in the 8-week Fit and Strong exercise program designed specifically for older adults with lower-extremity OA. Prior to the conclusion of Fit and Strong participants will be randomly assigned to one of two follow-up maintenance groups. There is no more than minimal risk associated with this program.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 60 years of age or older
• Presence of osteoarthritis in the lower extremities (including hip, knee, ankle, feet and lower back) with an American College of Rheumatology functional class rating of I, II, or III
• No other contraindication from a personal physician for participation in fitness walking or low-impact aerobics and strength training
• Lack of moderate to severe cognitive impairment shown as assessed by the Short Portable Mental Status Questionnaire

Exclusion Criteria:

• Under 60 years of age
• Lack of osteoarthritis in the lower extremities
• Contraindication from a personal physician for participation in activities described above
• Presence of moderate to severe cognitive impairment as assessed by the Short Portable Mental Status Questionnaire
• Steroid injections in either knee or hip within previous six months
• Knee or hip surgery within previous six months
• Plans for total knee or hip replacement within the next year
• Rheumatoid arthritis or other system inflammatory arthritis
• Diabetes that is not under good control
• Current participation in a structured aerobic exercise program
• Participation in original trial of the Fit and Strong Program