Uptake of evidence-based physical activity programs: comparing perceptions of adopters and nonadopters

Translating evidence-based physical activity interventions into practice have been problematic. Limited research exists on the adoption decision-making process. This study explored health educator perceptions of two evidence-based, physical activity programs—one was developed through an integrated research-practice partnership approach (FitEx) and the other was research-developed, Active Living Every Day (ALED). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 health educators who were trained on either ALED (n = 6) or FitEx (n = 6) and had either delivered (n = 6) or did not deliver (n = 6) the intervention. Program adopters identified with program characteristics, materials, processes, implementation, fit within system, and collaborations as more positive factors in decision-making when compared to those that did not deliver. FitEx health educators were more likely to deliver the program and found it to be a better fit and easier to use. An integrated research-practice partnership may improve adoption of physical activity programs in typical practice settings.