Study Design and Protocol for a RE-AIM Evaluation of a National Walking Netball Programme for Middle Age and Older Women

BackgroundPhysical activity (PA) is a modifiable risk factor for non-communicable disease morbidity and all-cause mortality in middle age and older age adults. Moreover, aging is accompanied by an increased incidence of loneliness, social isolation and low quality of life, and issues associated with poor mental health and psychological wellbeing. Using community settings to deliver sports-based programmes may prove an effective means to increase PA and thus improve individual health and wellbeing whilst promoting social capital. This paper describes the study design and protocol for the evaluation of a Walking Netball programme for middle and older age women. MethodsA mixed methods approach will be used to investigate the Walking Netball programme. This approach is underpinned by the RE-AIM framework. A multiple baseline study with six phases will be implemented during the programme to investigate potential changes physical activity behaviour and health outcomes. Data will be collected at 3-months pre-baseline, at baseline, and 3-months, 6-months and 12-months post baseline. A sub-study will be conducted using a quasi-experimental design to examine the effectiveness of the programme on physiological health over the medium-term. Finally, a series of qualitative studies (i.e., interviews and focus groups) will explore the acceptability and feasibility of the programme with participants and stakeholders (England Netball coaches, Walking Netball hosts). Discussion This study will be the first longitudinal evaluation to investigate the acceptability, feasibility and effectiveness of providing walking netball within a community setting on physical activity participation and health outcomes. The results of this study will provide insight for future researchers and stakeholders providing sports-based health interventions to middle and older age women. Further, the study will raise awareness of the behavioural and organizational process underpinning sustainable participation.