Current Projects Evaluation

Evaluation of First Step to Active Health™

Funding number:

SIP-09-028

Project description

First Step to Active Health® (FSAH) was developed by the Hygienic Corporation in collaboration with Thera-Band®. FSAH is a 4-part program that includes strategies for participating in aerobic, flexibility, strength and balance exercise. The FSAH kit contains a program manual containing instructions on how to start and maintain an exercise program, descriptions and illustrations of each exercise, an activity log, and an elastic resistance band.

The primary goal of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of the FSAH program among adults with arthritis. Outcomes to be studied include symptoms, physical activity level, functional performance, and strength. The control group will receive a similar program designed to encourage healthy eating.

Program website

www.firststeptoactivehealth.com

Project objective

• To test the effectiveness of the FSAH program on arthritis symptoms, lower body strength, functional aerobic capacity, flexibility, physical activity level, and self-efficacy.
• Evaluate the safety of the program by monitoring symptoms and adverse events.
• Conduct a process evaluation to examine program reach, participation/dose, fidelity, and participant satisfaction.

Sara Wilcox PhD
University of South Carolina
Columbia, SC
wilcoxs@mailbox.sc.edu

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