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Background: Research on physical activity (PA) interventions for individuals with substance use disorders (SUDs) has yielded mixed findings regarding impact on substance use, mental health, and physical health. Low motivation, a common barrier in this population, can limit intervention effectiveness. This study evaluated the perceived effectiveness, feasibility, and acceptability of a motivational group intervention designed to enhance PA motivation among residents of a SUD treatment facility in Western Australia. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 intervention participants and five treatment facility stakeholders (n = 15). Data were analysed using inductive reflexive thematic analysis. Results: This generated five key themes: (1) Fostering Autonomous Motivation and Positive Change outlines perceptions of enhanced PA motivation; (2) Self-Monitoring Increased Motivation reflected benefits of self-monitoring components; (3) Meaningful and Motivating Content described how specific elements increased PA motivation; (4) Collective Support Through Connection illustrated how social support enhanced relatedness and motivation; and (5) Amplifying Impact Through Facilitator Collaboration highlighted how facilitator dynamics supported motivation via relatedness and competence. Conclusion: Overall, participants found the intervention acceptable, feasible, and effective in supporting autonomous motivation for PA. Findings can inform future intervention development to promote sustained PA motivation and long-term behaviour change in SUD treatment contexts.
Thal et al. (Fri,) studied this question.