JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly diminished the physical activity level of Thais adults belonging to the generation Y population (Gen Y). As a response to the global crisis, many individuals worldwide have turned to social community platforms, recognizing their potential in promoting physical activity during the pandemic. Gen Y, in particular, demonstrates exceptional proficiency in utilizing online social platforms, showcasing a remarkable aptitude for swiftly accessing new information and knowledge. However, their proclivity for reckless behavior exposes them to various health risks, potentially leading to enduring adverse health consequences. Consequently, there arises a pressing need to develop a comprehensive model aimed at elevating the physical activity levels among individuals belonging to Gen Y.

Objective:

This research aimed to examine the effectiveness of an online group-based activity in promoting physical activity (PA) among Gen Y population in Thailand.

Methods:

This was a parallel two-arm randomized controlled trial, with single-blind allocation to experimental and control groups, and pre- and post-test measurements. Measurements were administered online and were designed to fill by themselves. The sample comprised of 100 Gen Y individuals who met the inclusion criteria. Both groups were matched for background characteristics. The two, 8-week intervention activities were (a) 2 weeks of education; and (b) 6 weeks of motivation by target groups set goals for PA together (using Zoom meeting application), with a time limit and group consensus as to when the goal was to be achieved. The intervention activities implemented one by one at specified intervals, delivered daily through health apps and Line official account.

Results:

The intervention starts from August 22 to October 16, 2021. Of the 100 subjects, 20 left the study, remaining 80 subjects in the study (40 individuals each in the experimental and control groups). After participating in the experiment, a statistically significant difference in PA was found between the two groups (MVPA) (25/40, 63%; P =.03). Participants in the intervention group collected a higher cumulative minute of MVPA weekly (283 mins) than those in the control group (164 mins), and this was statistically significant. For the transition to the 4th Stage of behavior (i.e., action) the improvement in the experimental group, after participating in the trial, was statistically significant compared to the control group (P =.012).

Conclusions:

Online group-based activity shown its effectiveness in improving PA of Gen Y in the intervention group. It created a process-based intervention activity that corresponds to the stages of behavior changes, from contemplation to action. The Virtual Community can also connect individuals to comparable groups locally and globally. Clinical Trial: The study is registered at Thai Clinical Trials Registry (TCTR) under the code TCTR20211101005 (https://www.thaiclinicaltrials.org/show/TCTR20211101005).