Day Centre Ring of Kerry Cycle Challenge to increase weekly moderate intensity physical activity levels for > 65’s

Abstract Background Physical inactivity is recognised as a leading risk factor for obesity, non-communicable diseases and chronic conditions. In Ireland, however, Healthy Ireland data has shown that only 33% of older adults aged 65-74 and 18% of those aged 75+ meet physical activity recommendations. The Physiotherapy Department at Leopardstown Park Hospital created this cycle challenge to increase exercise and to help meet the WHO physical activity guidelines for those > 65 among day centre clients. Methods Each day centre client was asked if they would like to participate in the Ring of Kerry cycle challenge. Individual A3-sized Ring of Kerry maps were used for each client to increase motivation to exercise. The distance cycled each week was marked on the route. Daily, maps were placed on a board with scenic pictures representing key points along the route. Motivation Tools: Visual cues – scenic pictures and individual maps with distance covered in black. Competition between participants. Reminiscence over pictures and memories of times past when they were in Kerry. Chat between day centre clients about the challenge. Results 31 out of approximately 100 clients (31%) agreed to participate in the Ring of Kerry cycle challenge. 4 out of 31 clients attended twice a week, and the remaining 27 (88%) attended once weekly. In addition to the cycle challenge, all participants attended the physio-led exercise class, thus increasing their physical activity levels even further. Youngest: 66, oldest 98, mean age:85 Total Distance: 3850.16km Mean Weekly Distance: 2.4km Total minimum Distance: 11.27km Total maximum Distance: 516.78km Mean Distance: 124.19 Km Time: Minimum =7mins, maximum = 22mins, total time in minutes: 11545 mins Mean time in minutes: 373mins, 7mins per week average Conclusion Inclusion of these motivational tools increased willingness to participate in extra exercise initiatives, as evidenced. The Ring of Kerry cycle challenge created a positive environment for exercising.