Supported exercise within transdiagnostic mental health services: a protocol paper for a two-arm hybrid effectiveness-implementation trial

Abstract Objectives People living with severe mental illness have a reduced life expectancy when compared to the general population largely due to physical health comorbidities. Exercise is a valuable, evidence-based component of mental healthcare, with positive effects on physical health, mental health, and quality of life. However, to date, there is limited evidence regarding the implementation of varied styles of supported exercise therapy within outpatient, transdiagnostic mental health services. This protocol paper outlines the methods for a hybrid effectiveness-implementation trial implementing two styles of supported exercise within an outpatient mental health hospital. Methods Participants will be allocated to either in-person supervised exercise sessions, or independent, remotely supported exercise programs. Both intervention arms will have the target of 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week across the 12-week intervention period, along with a 12-week maintenance period following the intervention periods. Assessments will be conducted at intake, intervention midpoint (i.e., week 6–7), intervention conclusion (i.e., week 13), and at follow-up (i.e., week 25). Results The evaluation of the exercise interventions will consist of implementation and effectiveness outcomes during the intervention and at follow-up. Conclusions The outcomes from this trial will add to the ever-increasing evidence for the incorporation of exercise within care for severe mental illness. This trial will report on the implementation and effectiveness of varied levels of support in exercise therapy for consumers with severe mental illness, which may in turn guide the future implementation and improve provision of exercise therapy in hospital mental health services.