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The relationship between physical activity, exercise and health has long been established. More recently the evidence linking sedentary behaviour to poor health is compelling. In addition to the benefits of physical activity/exercise and the deleterious effects of sedentary behaviour on the general population, there is growing evidence of their significance in the management and promotion of physical and mental health and psychological wellbeing.

The module aims to help you explore the role of physiotherapists in supporting physical and mental health and wellbeing, through promoting physical activity and exercise, within individual, group and population contexts. In this module you will explore models of health and the theories underpinning behaviour change and relate these to your practice as a physiotherapist with consideration for current policy and the changing health and social care context. You will also evaluate the evidence-base relating to physical activity/exercise and sedentary behaviour in the management and prevention of common conditions. In the module you will develop an understanding of key concepts such as: exercise prescription, community engagement and risk evaluation for exercise prescription and physical activity.

In addition, you will develop your critical thinking and practical skills in using appropriate evidence and practical methods required for effective clinical exercise prescription and physical activity advice for individuals and groups and communities. This will include the practical skills involved in exercise testing. There will be an opportunity to collaborate with service users and/or carers at an individual and group level and to propose an evidence-based strategy for a community based exercise/physical activity programme to meet their needs. This will include identify learning needs and preferences of your target audience. This may include people with conditions such as: stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, cerebral palsy, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, back pain, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, COPD, asthma or cardiac disease.

LO1: Critically discuss theories and models of health, wellbeing, illness and behaviour change and relate these to a physiotherapy context.
LO2: Evaluate the role of physiotherapists in contributing to the public health workforce in promoting physical activity and wellbeing and reducing sedentary behaviour at an individual, group and population level across the lifespan.
LO3: Appraise the evidence for the health benefits of promoting physical activity/exercise and reducing sedentary behaviour in the prevention and management of selected physical and psychological problems.
LO4: Design a tailored exercise programme which includes exercise/physical activity prescription for individuals and/or groups.
LO5: Engage with service users and/or carers in the planning of an evidence-informed exercise/physical activity programme aimed at facilitation of movement and function or promoting psychological wellbeing, giving consideration for the management and evaluation of the programme.
LO6: Create an evidence-informed health infographic that would be appropriate for a community-based intervention to promote physical activity/exercise or reduce sedentary behaviour.