Perspectives of professional experts in relation to the development of community-based exercise for young adults with schizophrenia – A qualitative study

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundPhysical activity is a key modifiable factor in protecting physical and mental health in people with severe mental illness including schizophrenia. Therefore, early promotion of physical activity is recommended and programmes supporting long-term maintenance of physically active behaviour are warranted. This study aimed to explore the perspectives of professional experts in relation to the development of a sustainable community-based exercise programme tailored to young adults with schizophrenia and intended to promote change and adoption of physical activity.MethodsWe conducted nine semi-structured interviews with 11 clinical and professional experts. Qualitative content analysis, as described by Graneheim and Lundman, was applied to analyse data.ResultsWe identified four categories: (1) living a physical active life with schizophrenia, (2) exercise as promotor of personal recovery, (3) prescribing safe and relevant exercise, and (4) instructors’ qualifications and formation.ConclusionsWhen developing sustainable community-based exercise programmes tailored to young adults with schizophrenia, developers should ensure instructors’ qualifications and provide an exercise protocol. In addition, developers should consider providing an inclusive and recovery-oriented exercise environment.Key messagesWhat is already known on this topicPhysical activity is a key modifiable factor in protecting physical and mental health in people with severe mental illness, including schizophrenia.Sustainable community-based programmes to support adoption of physical activity for young adults with schizophrenia are warranted.What this study addsDevelopers of community-based exercise for young adults with schizophrenia must ensure a strategy for identifying and training exercise instructors and the provision of a protocol for delivering safe and clinically relevant exercise.Community-based exercise may have the potential to promote personal recovery and thus considerations regarding the balance between overcoming potential barriers towards participation while promoting a non-clinical exercise environment are provided.How this study might affect research, practice or policyThese findings could support and inform the development of community-based programmes promoting physical activity for people with schizophrenia and may be adaptable or inspirable to other psychiatric populations in other geographical settings.