The SHINE (Supporting Her In Navigating Exercise) Program: Examining Peer Support as an Exercise Promotion Tool Among Female Undergraduate Students: A Study Protocol

Background: Despite the benefits of regular exercise, many Canadians, especially female undergraduate students (FUS), experienced decreased engagement throughout the pandemic: due, in part, to feelings of low social support and confidence. One promising approach to enhance exercise is peer-mentorship programs (PMP): pairing knowledge-seeking individuals with experienced mentors. To date, FUS PMP research remains sparse. Objective: Grounded in Self-Determination Theory, this experimental study will examine the impact of an eight-week exercise-focused, campus-based PMP on FUS adherence and psychological needs. Method: Forty full-time FUS who do not meet Canada’s movement guidelines will be randomized (20 exercise; 20 exercise plus mentor); 5 Kinesiology students with exercise expertise will be recruited as mentors. All participants will receive a standardized facility tour and an exercise program. Mentors will attend exercise sessions and provide regular virtual support for treatment-group participants. Quantitative data will be collected pre-, mid-, and post-intervention through the Psychological Needs Satisfaction in Exercise Scale and Behavioural Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire-3. Participants will electronically log their exercise; all FUS will be invited to complete a one-on-one semi-structured interview post-intervention to gain insights into the quantitative data and study involvement experiences. Results: Based on previous research, both groups are expected to show positive changes, with greater improvements anticipated in the treatment condition. Conclusion: Uncovering effective methods to promote FUS exercise engagement is crucial for fostering a healthy campus. Strengthening a more movement culture in this context will enrich student engagement and mental well-being: pivotal for establishing lifelong habits during this developmental period.