Snacktivity™ to Promote Physical Activity in Primary Care, Community Health and Public Health Settings: A Feasibility Randomised Controlled Trial

Abstract Background A novel ‘whole day’ approach that could motivate the public to be more physically active is Snacktivity™. The Snacktivity™ approach encourages individuals to accumulate 150 min of physical activity in short 2–5-min ‘snacks’ of moderate-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) throughout the day/week. Method A randomised controlled trial to assess the feasibility/acceptability of a Snacktivity™ intervention and trial processes was conducted. The trial aimed to recruit 80 physically inactive adults from healthcare services and via social media. Participants were randomised to the Snacktivity™ intervention or usual care and followed up at 12 weeks. The intervention was predominately delivered by health professionals within consultations. Assessment of whether the Snacktivity™ intervention and trial methods were acceptable to participants, adherence to Snacktivity™ (assessed by Fitbit) and physical activity (assessed by accelerometer), and retention were considered according to traffic light stop-go progression criteria (green-amber-red). Results Seventy-two participants (n = 37 Snacktivity™ intervention; n = 35 usual care) were recruited across 14 months (72/80, 90%, (green) 95% CI: 83% to 97%). Snacktivity™ adherence was achieved in 12/37 participants (32%, (red) 95% CI: 17% to 48%). Physical activity adherence was achieved in 17/37 participants (46%, (amber) 95% CI: 30% to 62%). Seven participants (10%, (green) 95% CI: 3% to 17%) withdrew from follow-up and 25/72 (35%, (amber) 95% CI: 24% to 46%) had no accelerometer data at follow-up (retention). Conclusion The Snacktivity™ intervention may be feasible and acceptable to implement. Findings can inform subsequent research that seeks to investigate whether Snacktivity™ based approaches are effective in promoting physical activity in the population. Trial Registration ISRCTN: 64851242. Registration date: 31/01/21.