Promoting physical activity in primary care: measuring the knowledge gap

Abstract

Semi-structured interviews with GP trainers and their associated practice nurses were conducted during March to July 1994 to identify their attitudes to, and knowledge about, the health benefits of physical activity. Par ticipants were asked about the health benefits of physical activity, personal exercise habits and information or training received about promoting healthy exercise. While there was unanimous agreement that physical activity is 'a good thing', specific knowledge of the health benefits of exercise was sketchy. Most of the nurses and all of the doctors had received no training in this area. The knowledge gaps found in the interviewees are therefore not surprising. This training issue must be addressed before effective promotion of physical activity can take place in primary health care.