Physiotherapists’ delivery of a mobile health physical activity intervention for people post-stroke and transient ischemic attack: Insights from a feasibility study

Background and Purpose Mobile health (mHealth) offers a promising platform for promoting physical activity (PA) in individuals post-stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). However, the extent to which key intervention components of PA promotion can be adapted to a digital format remains unclear. This study examines the fidelity of delivering supervised physical exercise and support for individualized PA goals in a 6-month mHealth intervention. Methods This feasibility randomized controlled trial included individuals post-stroke or TIA who participated in the mHealth version of the i-REBOUND program. Descriptive statistics were used to assess format (individual/group), and progression of supervised exercise, as well as the characteristics of PA goals (type and use of action planning) throughout the intervention. Results Of the 57 participants enrolled in the i-REBOUND program (mean age: 71 years; 70% with stroke), 51 (89%) completed the intervention. Of the 1391 total exercise sessions delivered, the majority (62%) were performed at moderate or higher intensity (Borg rating ≥11). Additionally, 39 participants (71%) demonstrated exercise progression, and 49 participants (89%) participated in group sessions. A total of 293 PA goals were established, predominantly with a focus on performing a desired behavior. Defining frequency (88%), context (61%) and duration (53%) of PA goals was common, while defining intensity (25%) was less so. Discussion and conclusions This study support the implementation of a mHealth-delivered supervised exercise program for people post-stroke or TIA, achieving target intensity, integrating group sessions, and progression. Refining goal-setting strategies to address diverse action planning components may enhance future mHealth interventions.