The Aussie-FIT process evaluation: feasibility and acceptability of a weight loss intervention for men, delivered in Australian Football League settings

Citation

Kwasnicka D, Donnachie C, Thøgersen-Ntoumani C, Hunt K, Gray CM, Ntoumanis N, McBride H, McDonald MD, Newton RU, Gucciardi DF, Olson JL, Wyke S, Morgan PJ, Kerr DA, Robinson S & Quested E (2022) The Aussie-FIT process evaluation: feasibility and acceptability of a weight loss intervention for men, delivered in Australian Football League settings. Psychology and Health, 37 (4), pp. 470-489. https://doi.org/10.1080/08870446.2021.1890730

Abstract
Objective: This process evaluation aimed to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of Aussie-FIT, a group-based weight loss intervention for men with overweight and obesity in Australia. Design: Process data and data collected from: (1) six participant focus groups (n=24), (2) coach interviews (n=4), (3) audio recordings of Aussie-FIT sessions, and (4) post-program participant surveys (n=93) were analysed. Main Outcome Measures: We explored the feasibility and acceptability of program setting and context, recruitment strategies, factors impacting implementation and mechanisms of impact. Results: Recruitment via Australian Football League (AFL) clubs was highly effective; 426 men expressed interest within three days of advertising, 130 men took part. Program attendance was not consistently recorded by coaches. Coach interviews indicated a ‘core group of men’ participated in each session (typically 10-12 of 15 men). Program delivery proved feasible in the AFL context. Program acceptability and satisfaction were high. Internalisation of autonomous motives was identified as driving behaviour change. Behaviour change to support maintained weight loss was facilitated through habit formation, goal setting, and effective management of multiple goals. Conclusion: Aussie-FIT sets a blueprint for future weight loss interventions that utilise behaviour change strategies and principles of self-determined motivation to support men to lose weight.

Keywords
Process Evaluation; Physical Activity; Diet; Weight Loss; Behaviour Change; Motivation; Self-determination

Journal
Psychology and Health: Volume 37, Issue 4

• Accepted manuscript