Investigation of frequency and fidelity of the participants affecting the study of exercise therapy

Background: The present study was performed to examine the factors required for active engagement of participants in exercise therapy by surveying the frequency of participation, fidelity of performance, and supporting materials and rewards provided to encourage participation in the study. Design: Cross-sectional study. Methods: The survey was conducted in a population of 103 participants in at least one exercise treatment study. A 12-item questionnaire was designed to determine the frequency of exercise participation and fidelity of participant performance. Results: The results were subjected to frequency analysis and Pearson's correlation analysis. The subjects were less likely to exercise with the therapist and less likely to exercise at home. In addition, the provision of supplementary materials, to be considered when exercising at home, was insufficient. A strong positive correlation was found between the frequency of exercise in the presence of a therapist and the fidelity of participant performance (r=0.812, p=0.001), whereas a weak negative correlation was found between the frequency of unperformed exercises and the fidelity of participant performance (r=-0.523, p=0.023). Conclusion: The results of the present study suggested that it is necessary to increase the number of times that exercises are performed with the therapist to motivate increased frequency of exercise participation and fidelity of participant performance. In addition, appropriate rewards and periodic management are required.

운동 치료 연구에 영향을 주는 연구대상자의 참여도와 충실도 조사