The Intersect of Theory, Methods, and Translation in Guiding Interventions for the Promotion of Physical Activity: A Case Example of a Research Programme

Abstract

Physical activity promotion is pivotal for preventing and treating a range of non‐communicable diseases and improving overall quality of life. However, over 50% of the Australian population is not adhering to public health guidelines for physical activity. Efficacious theory‐based, scalable physical activity behaviour change interventions are required for the Australian population as well as specific target populations across various settings. The primary aim of this article is to make recommendations to researchers and practitioners related to the inter‐relationship of theory, methods, and translation, through examples of our interventions targeting physical activity for the prevention of obesity and other health outcomes. This article summarises a number of our Priority Research Centre for Physical Activity and Nutrition's interventions operationalising social‐cognitive theories across various settings and population subgroups. We present key issues to consider regarding the intersect of theoretical, methodological, and translational issues in this regard. Future directions to improve theory, methods, and translation are provided.

Key words:

• interventions
• knowledge translation and dissemination
• methods
• physical activity
• theory

Acknowledgements

RCP is supported by a NHMRC Senior Research Fellowship. We would like to acknowledge the efforts of Sarah Kennedy in the preparation of this manuscript.

Additional information

Funding

NHMRC Senior Research Fellowship