Innovative program to increase physical activity following an acute coronary syndrome: Randomized controlled trial

Abstract Objective To evaluate the impact of a socio-cognitive intervention associated with a pedometer-based program on physical activity, cardiovascular risk factors and self-efficacy expectation during one year following an acute coronary syndrome. Methods Sixty-five subjects were randomized during hospitalization in an experimental or a usual care group. Average steps/day was measured every 3 months until one year following discharge. Other dependent variables were measured at baseline, 6 and 12 months follow-up. Results There were 32 patients in the experimental group and 33 patients in the usual care group. Group characteristics were comparable. At baseline, averages steps/day were similar between groups (5845 ± 3246 vs. 6097 ± 3055 steps/day; p  = 0.812). At 3-month follow-up, both groups increased their averages steps/day ( p p p p Conclusion The intervention is useful to improve average steps/day and waist circumference during the first year following an acute coronary syndrome. Practice implications This study supports development of the home-based cardiac rehabilitation program using socio-cognitive intervention associated with a pedometer after an acute coronary syndrome.