Table 2 Methods of improving behaviour change and overcoming barriers to exercise participation [19, 20]

Ensure participants have an understanding of the short, medium and longer-term consequences of their health-related behaviours, for themselves and others

Assist participants to plan their behaviour changes in terms of easy steps over time

Recognise how social contexts and relationships may affect behaviour, and identify and plan for situations that might undermine changes being made

Plan explicit 'if-then' coping strategies to prevent relapse

Assist participants to make a personal commitment to adopt health-enhancing behaviours by setting (and recording) goals to undertake clearly defined behaviours, in particular contexts, over a specified time

Share their behaviour change goals with others

Encourage short bouts of exercise for participants with a 'lack of time'

Encourage group exercise sessions for participants with low motivation

Encourage moderate level activities if physical limitations are present