Key Points
- To identify an appropriate theoretical framework alongside user needs to design an internet- and mobile-based physical activity intervention for cardiac rehabilitation.
- Conducted a narrative review of health behavior change literature applied to physical activity to establish an intervention framework.
- Conducted a focus group with cardiac rehabilitation participants (N=11) and evaluated transcribed responses using thematic analysis (Trial registration: NCT01223170).
- Selected stage-based frameworks—specifically the transtheoretical model and health action process approach, supplemented by regulatory focus theory—to guide intervention tailoring.
- Identified seven core user themes through thematic analysis: social support, motivation, daily life integration, information, planning, monitoring and feedback, and potential concerns.
Structured PICO
PPopulation11 participants of a cardiac rehabilitation program
IInterventionDesign of an Internet- and mobile-based intervention for physical activity based on health behavior change theories and user input
OOutcomeIdentification of theoretical framework and user needs for intervention design
Combining health behavioral theory with user input is a promising approach for designing internet- and mobile-based physical activity interventions for cardiac rehabilitation.