Evaluating an Adapted Physical Activity Program for University Students and Staff Living with a Physical Disability and/or Chronic Condition through a Self-Determination Theory Lens

Tayah M. Liska (), Olivia L. Pastore, Gabrielle D. Bedard, Crystal Ceh, Leah Freilich, Rachel Desjourdy and Shane N. Sweet
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Tayah M. Liska: Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, McGill University, Montreal, QC H2W 1S4, Canada
Olivia L. Pastore: Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, McGill University, Montreal, QC H2W 1S4, Canada
Gabrielle D. Bedard: Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, McGill University, Montreal, QC H2W 1S4, Canada
Crystal Ceh: McGill Athletics and Recreation, McGill University, Montreal, QC H2W 1S4, Canada
Leah Freilich: Student Accessibility and Achievement Office, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 2R7, Canada
Rachel Desjourdy: Student Accessibility and Achievement Office, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 2R7, Canada
Shane N. Sweet: Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, McGill University, Montreal, QC H2W 1S4, Canada

Disabilities, 2024, vol. 4, issue 2, 1-16

Abstract: The purpose of this mixed-method study was to (1) examine the effect of an adapted physical activity program, Fitness Access McGill (FAM), on leisure-time physical activity (LTPA), autonomous and controlled motivation, and the basic psychological needs of self-determination theory among university students/staff with a physical disability and/or chronic conditions, and (2) explore participants’ experiences after completing FAM. Nineteen participants completed validated questionnaires for all study outcomes pre- and post-FAM. Nine participants partook in a 30–60 min semi-structured interview conducted within three months of completing FAM. Quantitative data were analyzed using repeated measures effect size calculations. Qualitative data were analyzed using directed content analysis. Participants reported an increase in total LTPA (dRMpooled = 0.58), with the greatest positive change on strenuous intensity (dRMpooled = 0.81). Large effects were found for changes in autonomous motivation (dRMpooled = 0.52), autonomy (dRMpooled = 0.79), competence (dRMpooled = 0.79), and relatedness (dRMpooled = 0.89). Participants reported FAM being supportive towards their psychological needs, the development of a LTPA routine, and enhanced overall well-being. Future research can be built upon this study to develop a robust understanding as to how need-supportive, adapted LTPA programs could be implemented within community settings or out-patient rehabilitation to support exercise engagement, physical health and overall well-being among adults with disabilities.

Keywords: physical exercise; fitness; social participation; quality of life (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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