Leveraging social networks to increase physical activity

Symposium C11

Authors

  • Tracie A. Barnett McGill University
  • Andraea Van Hulst McGill University
  • Ariane Belanger-Gravel Université Laval
  • Johanne Saint-Charles Université du Québec à Montréal
  • Elena Tresierra-Farbridge Concordia University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14288/hfjc.v14i3.639

Keywords:

Social Networks, Physical Activity, Sedentary Behaviour, Adolescents, Young Adults, Clinical Interventions, Public Health

Abstract

Background: The structure and composition of social networks (SN) are emerging determinants of physical activity and sedentary behaviour. Greater understanding of these dynamics could inform innovative interventions designed to engage youth in more physical activity and to reduce their sedentary time.

Purpose: In this symposium, we provide an overview of social network analysis, we review the evidence linking social network characteristics to physical activity and sedentary behaviour, and we describe promising strategies that leverage social networks in order to increase physical activity and decrease sedentary behaviour in youth.

Description:

Dr. Johanne Saint-Charles, Universite du Quebec a Montreal. Title: Introduction to Social Networks: The What and the Why

Elena Tresierra-Farbridge, Concordia University. Title: Social Networks and Cardiometabolic Health: Scoping Review Methods

Dr. Tracie Barnett, McGill University. Title: Linking social networks to physical activity/sedentary behaviour in youth: evidence from observational studies

Dr. Ariane Bélanger- Gravel, Université Laval. Title: Linking social networks to physical activity/sedentary behaviour in youth: evidence from intervention studies

Methods: The nature of social networks, their assessment, and key social network indicators are described in an introductory session. A narrative literature review on the relationship between social networks, physical activity and sedentary behaviour is presented, and a systematic review of social network interventions designed to promote greater physical activity and/or to reduce sedentary behaviour is discussed.

Discussion: Speakers will engage attendees and discuss potential applications in clinical and public health settings, current gaps in knowledge, and research priorities moving forward, notably with respect to vulnerable populations.

Published

2021-09-30

How to Cite

Barnett, T., Van Hulst, A., Belanger-Gravel, A., Saint-Charles, J., & Tresierra-Farbridge, E. (2021). Leveraging social networks to increase physical activity: Symposium C11. The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, 14(3). https://doi.org/10.14288/hfjc.v14i3.639