Virtual health trainer to promote physical activity V1.0
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Trial of a virtual health trainer to promote physical activity in the management of Type 2 Diabetes in rural and remote areas
IRAS ID
131184
Contact name
Jenni Connelly
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Highlands and Islands
Research summary
This six month study will test the effectiveness of a virtual health trainer which is delivered through a website aiming to promote physical activity in people with Type 2 Diabetes living in remote and/or rural areas. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive the interactive virtual health trainer (intervention group 1), information only virtual health trainer (intervention group 2), or usual care (standard care exercise information). Physiological, biochemical and physical activity measurements will be taken on three occasions.
Physical activity will be objectively measured using actigraph accelerometers over a seven day period at baseline, three and six months. This will give an accurate measure of how much activity participants undertake over a week which can be compared with their self-report of physical activity and with the previous measures taken at baseline or three months. The usual care group will receive leaflets based on the website material regarding information on the benefits of physical activity on Type 2 Diabetes, current recommendations for physical activity and information on exercise and diabetes related complications.
The virtual health trainer group will be given this information but accessed through the website.
The interactive virtual health group will have access to this information but will be able to log onto the website. This will give them access to interactive features such as a tool to monitor their physical activity behaviour, a physical activity consultation which will help them to set up goals and targets and the option to choose challenges such as walking a 5k which they can accomplish over a few physical activity sessions. This group will also have access to a map that can help them find places in their area to become more active. The website will act as a support tool to promote physical activity in remote areas.
REC name
North of Scotland Research Ethics Committee 1
REC reference
13/NS/0069
Date of REC Opinion
3 Jul 2013
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion