A Novel Intervention to Promote Engagement in Physical Activity for Individuals With Whiplash Associated Disorder

The adapted physical activity (APA) intervention is a theory-based physical activity (PA) promotion intervention. The APA model is comprised of 4 steps: 1) pre-participation evaluation of physiological, personal and environmental factors that influence PA adoption and maintenance; 2) application of individualised, evidence based strategies associated with increased PA participation tailored to the participant's motivational readiness; 3) development of structured exercise and/or lifestyle PA program; and 4) tailored relapse prevention strategies to maintain physical activity beyond the duration of the program. The intervention will be conducted in the participant's home environment.

Participants will undertake their usual activities during the baseline period. An extended pre-intervention time frame is needed to establish a stable control phase and enhance internal validity.

Participants will have no contact with intervention personnel during the 5 week follow-up, withdrawal period. The withdrawal phase enables initial assessment of physical activity behavior change.