Knowledge of current exercise guidelines and perceived utilization in rural Indiana

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this research is to determine the understanding of current exercise guidelines in rural Indiana. A comparison of current exercise practices, barriers, and benefits of exercise were also briefly addressed. Methods: A survey was distributed to individuals (ages 18+) at a small family medicine clinic in a midwestern state (n=23). Findings: The sample size was 23, which comprised of mostly older females. Most participants responded that they do less than the recommended duration and intensity of exercise (Table 1). CDC recommendations were not well understood by 68% of participants. Conclusions: Results demonstrated that participants in rural Indiana underestimated the current CDC guidelines for exercise. They also fail to meet the CDC recommendations, as well as what they perceived the recommendations to be. Lack of motivation, energy and time were the most cited barriers. Increased energy and increased physical abilities were the most cited benefits.