JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

During early COVID-19, employees, and community members lacked access to fitness classes due to the elevated risk of infection and access to exercise facilities. An online, synchronous, physical fitness class was delivered via videoconferencing to create a sense of community and promote physical and mental wellness among healthcare workers and community members. Participants were recruited via faculty/staff listservs and instructor email list. Classes were taught by a faculty member at an academic medical center.

Objective:

This study examines the perceived mental and physical health benefits of attending an online, synchronous, physical fitness class for healthcare workers and community members. We also assess the feasibility and functionality of related technologies necessary for delivering and attending livestream fitness classes.

Methods:

Descriptive data were collected using an online participant survey that included quantitative and qualitative analyses to evaluate the ongoing, online exercise class. These data were collected via one survey during November and December of 2022.

Results:

51 participants were recruited and 100% completed the participant questionnaire. Survey participants consisted of 28 employees (55%), 17 non-employees (33%), and 6 declined to state (12%). High overall exercise class satisfaction was observed in the survey responses (mean 4.0 out of 5, SD=1). Survey analyses revealed significant perceived value of mental and physical health benefits as motivating factors for taking livestreamed physical fitness class.

Conclusions:

Results provide preliminary support for the use of online videoconferencing platforms to facilitate synchronous fitness classes for employees and associated community members. Future studies should continue to explore perceived benefits, including mental and physical wellness.