About the OPC Study

The OPC Study is evaluating whether making an online public commitment (OPC) to a behavioural goal influences goal attainment in relation to physical activity.

We are interested in recruiting individuals who are interested in being physically active, and are willing to set a SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic &

Time-bound) goal towards this.

During the study you will be asked to set a goal to engage in physical activity or exercise. You will then be required to join a (private) Facebook support group where

you will connect with other people

who have set similar goals.

Am I eligible to take part?

We are looking for volunteers who are motivated to participate in an online public commitment programme.

You may be eligible to take part if you:

• Are age 18 and above
• Are willing and open to setting a physical activity related goal to help improve your lifestyle
• Have access to a computer, tablet or smartphone with internet connection
• Have an English language Facebook account
• Are willing to join a private Facebook support group

The information you provide will be kept confidential.

What is physical activity?

Physical activity can be defined as any movement of the body that requires energy expenditure. This includes any motion you do through the day excluding sitting still or lying down. For example, walking to class, taking the stairs, mowing the lawn, and even cleaning your house can be considered physical activity. Exercise is a type of physical activity but not every physical activity is exercise. Exercise is a planned, structured, and repetitive activity for the purpose of improving or maintain physical fitness.

How much physical activity is recommended for adults (18-64)?

Adults should:

• aim to be physically active every day. Any activity is better than none, and more is better still
• do strengthening activities that work all the major muscles (legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders and arms) on at least 2 days a week
• do at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity a week or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity activity a week
• reduce time spent sitting or lying down and break up long periods of not moving with some activity.

Benefits of physical activity?

• It stimulates various brain chemicals that may leave you feeling happier, more relaxed and less anxious.
• It can help prevent excess weight gain or help maintain weight loss.
• It is good for your muscles and bones
• It can increase your energy levels
• It can reduce your risk of certain diseases including type 2 diabetes, colon cancer, dementia
• It can help skin health
• It can help your brain health and memory
• It can help you fall asleep faster, get better sleep and deepen your sleep.

Find out more at here.

Physical activity facts

Why participate?

If you are eligible and choose to take part, you will benefit from:

• A 30 minute goal setting consultation to help you identify and set your physical activity related goal.
• Be part of an online group of like-minded people

Your participation is voluntary and you may choose to withdraw from the study at any time. All information you provide is completely confidential.

AN OPPORTUNITY TO CHANGE YOUR LIFESTYLE.

The information you provide will be kept confidential.

For more information and further details, please send us an email.

B.O.Omuso@2019.ljmu.ac.uk

(+44) 0774 3255787

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© 2021 OPC Study. All Rights Reserved.

YOU CAN

BECOME MORE

PHYSICALLY ACTIVE

Consider participating in a research study that may help you better at achieving your goal of becoming more physically active.

The information you provide will be kept confidential.