Physical activity on Prescription reduces sedentary leisure time

Physical activity on Prescription (FaR) is a relatively new method for getting people moving. "Those prescribed organized activities decreased their sedentary time significantly six months after receiving their prescription," says Amanda Ek, Master of Public Health at the Nordic School of Public Health (NHV).

Physical activity on Prescription has been used by the Swedish health care system since 2001, and can consist of both regular everyday exercise along with organized activities. In her master's study at NHV, Lic. Physiotherapist Amanda Ek followed 98 individuals in four Swedish counties who had been prescribed physical activity.

"The study shows that the majority of those prescribed for example group exercise follow their prescription and reduce their sedentary leisure time," says Amanda Ek. While the majority viewed the prescription positively, they did express a need for continuous support during a longer time period. Invididually tailored prescriptions will also be important.