Analysis for policy to improve physical activity behavior in Tabriz Metropolis

Abstract

Abstract Background & Objectives: The level of physical activity (PA) among middle-aged adults in Tabriz is less than optimal. This study aims to recommend policy options to promote physical activity in them. Methods: This multi-method policy analysis study was conducted includes the following four phases: First, a qualitative content analysis to explore the reasons for lack of PA. Second, a comparative study of successful PA programs in Iran and other similar developing countries. Then, a qualitative framework analysis based on the Policy Triangle to analyse PA promotion policies. Fourth, developing and prioritizing the policy options by using the Analytical Hierarchy Process techniques. Results: The barriers to regular PA were being listless and lethargic, urgency of daily needs, non-supportive environment, disintegration in PA education chain, restrictive social norms and the inherent difficulties of PA. Also, political commitment, clear goals, inter-sectoral cooperation, sustainable financing, evaluation of program implementation were the results of the successful programs criteria in selected countries. The results of study showed that there were fundamental challenges in PA policy based on different components of the policy triangle (content, process, context, stakeholders). According to the results of this study, 5 policy options for promoting PA behavior in Tabriz metropolis were formulated and prioritized, including: development of mechanisms to encourage PA and inactivity, strengthen of execution commitment of current sports laws in government organizations and work sites, designing Urban, peripheral and active transportation in order to developing PA, development of training mechanism and comprehensive specialized counselling of PA in the community, sustainable financing and allocation of a specific budget line to the development of public sports in organizations. Conclusions: Explaining the barriers to and facilitators of PA in participants and analyzing PA policies led to providing evidence to policy makers for developing and prioritizing appropriate policy options to the Tabriz metropolis.