Evaluating the Feasibility and Acceptability of a Co-Designed Physical Activity Intervention for Rural Middle Schoolers: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Abstract Background This study assesses the effectiveness of a physical activity intervention using a human-centered participatory co-design in a rural community. In collaboration with a campus-community partnership, the intervention involves children in the design process to address declining physical activity levels among middle school students. The primary objective is to evaluate the feasibility of this innovative intervention. Methods Twenty-four middle school students participated in a mixed-methods pre-post intervention during physical education classes. The inclusive intervention included elements like sport-based youth development, individualized goal setting, physical activity monitoring, pedometer usage, and health education. Data were collected at baseline (T1) and post-intervention (T3), with intermediate measures during the intervention (T2). Analytical methods encompassed descriptive statistics, correlations, repeated measures ANOVA, and thematic analysis. Qualitative data were integrated through semi-structured interviews. Results Key findings indicate robust feasibility, with intervention-related scores (FIM, AIM, and IAM) consistently surpassing the "good" threshold and 100% retention and recruitment success. Additionally, participants showed significant physical performance improvement, shifting from the 25th to the 50th percentile in the 6-minute walk test (p < 0.05). Autonomy and competence remained high, reflecting positive perceptions of program practicality. Nutrition knowledge, initially low, significantly improved post-intervention (p < 0.01), highlighting the efficacy of targeted nutritional education in Hoosier Sport. Conclusions This study pioneers a community-focused model for physical activity intervention in under-resourced rural settings. Positive participant feedback, coupled with improvements in physical fitness and psychosocial factors, highlights the potential of the co-design approach. The findings offer valuable insights and a practical template for future community-based research, signaling the promising impact of such interventions on holistic well-being. This research lays the foundation for subsequent phases of the ORBIT model, emphasizing collaborative, community-driven approaches to address the complex issue of declining physical activity levels among adolescents.