Mindfulness for Physical Activity Research Project

Adapting a Mindfulness-based Programme to Facilitate Physical Activity Uptake in Underactive Participants: A Feasibility Study

This study aims to evaluate the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of a Mindfulness for Physical Activity programme on physical activity outcomes in underactive participants.

In recent years, mindfulness-based approaches have increasingly been used in mental and physical health interventions. There appears to be some consensus about the benefits of standard mindfulness courses, such as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy on stress, anxiety and depression, and other health conditions. In terms of physical activity, however, evidence for the use of mindfulness training to promote and improve physical activity is scarce and shows conflicting results. Evidence suggests that mindfulness training may enhance psychological factors related to exercise, such as intrinsic motivation to engage in physical activity, tolerance of physical activity-related discomfort, and physical activity self-regulation, which could potentially enhance physical activity maintenance in the long run.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Male or female
• 19-64 years old
• Would like to do more physical activity, but find it boring, uncomfortable, or not enjoyable
• Available and willing to attend all sessions and complete all research measures

Exclusion Criteria:

• Physical disability, cardiovascular condition, or any other illnesses or injuries that would prevent from doing physical activity
• Currently engaging in regular physical activity
• Currently taking medication and/or undergoing therapy for a mental health condition
• Have previously completed a mindfulness course
• Currently engaged in a regular meditation practice
• Away or unavailable on Mondays between 17:30 to 19:30pm for 6 weeks starting 1st October and for other assessment dates up to 17th December 2018