Bringing the walk with ease programme to the UK: a mixed-methods study to assess the relevance, acceptability, and feasibility of implementation for people with arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions.

Martin, Kathryn R.; Stelfox, Kevin; Macfarlane, Gary J.; McNamee, Paul; Morrison, Zoe; Smith, Toby O.; Walk Ease Res Study Team

Abstract

Developed in the United States (US), Walk With Ease (WWE) is a popular evidence-based, 6-week community walking programme for adults with arthritis, delivered in either an instructor-led or self-directed format. While WWE has expanded into communities across the USA, it is relatively unknown in other countries across the globe. This study, in collaboration with community and patient partners, aimed to examine the relevance, acceptability and feasibility of introducing WWE into a UK context. After initial cultural adaptation, participants were recruited into the study. Eligible (≥18 years, doctor diagnosed arthritis (confirmed or self-report), self-reported joint symptoms in last 30 days, BMI ≥25 kg/m2, and <150 min/week of moderate/vigorous PA) and consented participants were randomized into two groups: WWE programme or usual care. A mixed-methods analysis approach integrated quantitative data (physical performance assessment; baseline and post-six week programme questionnaire) and qualitative data (narrative interviews exploring participants' pre- and post-WWE experiences and stakeholders' perceptions). Of 149 participants, the majority were women (70%) aged ≥60 years (76%). Among the 97 receiving the programme, 52 chose instructor-led; 45 chose self-directed. Participants found WWE relevant and acceptable—99% indicating they would recommend WWE to family/friends. Within both WWE formats, mixed differences representing improvement were observed at 6 weeks from baseline for physical performance and arthritis symptoms. Emergent themes included improved motivation, health, and social well-being. WWE is a relevant and acceptable walking programme with scope for wider implementation to support UK health and well-being policy strategies.

Citation

MARTIN, K.R., STELFOX, K., MACFARLANE, G.J., MCNAMEE, P., MORRISON, Z. and SMITH, T.O. on behalf of the Walk With Ease Research Study Team. 2023. Bringing the walk with ease programme to the UK: a mixed-methods study to assess the relevance, acceptability, and feasibility of implementation for people with arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions. Translational behavioral medicine [online], 13(11), pages 851-866. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1093/tbm/ibad032

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Jun 15, 2023
• Online Publication Date: Jun 15, 2023
• Publication Date: Nov 5, 2023
• Deposit Date: Jun 30, 2023
• Publicly Available Date: Jun 30, 2023
• Journal: Translational behavioral medicine
• Print ISSN: 1869-6716
• Electronic ISSN: 1613-9860
• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 13
• Issue: 11
• Pages: 851-866
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1093/tbm/ibad032
• Keywords: Walk with ease; Arthritis; Cultural adaptation; Non-clinical intervention; Community walking programme
• Public URL: https://rgu-repository.worktribe.com/output/1998026
• Additional Information: This article has been published with separate supporting information. This supporting information has been incorporated into a single file on this repository and can be found at the end of the file associated with this output.