Physical activity interventions for the cardiac population: A generic logic model based on intervention mapping

Abstract

Regular physical activity constitutes a crucial secondary prevention behaviour for people who have had an acute cardiac event. Nonetheless, sustained physical activity levels of the cardiac population are in need of improvement. Applying the Intervention Mapping approach, we describe a generic logic model for developing behavioural interventions to increase and maintain physical activity among those who have had an acute cardiac event. The development of the logic model was both data- and theory-driven, which enhances the effectiveness of the behavioural interventions developed using the logic model. The logic model may additionally be used to indicate research gaps, to solidify the underpinnings of already established behavioural interventions, and as a reflection tool for healthcare providers and individuals’ behaviour. A generic logic model like the one presented here can be developed for key behavioural outcomes related to preventing other highly relevant health problems. We further recommend that future empirical research focuses on determinants of social support provision for cardiac patients’ physical activity.