Increasing Physical Activity of Children with Cystic Fibrosis: A Home-Based Family Intervention

This study evaluated a home-based, parent-managed, behavioral program to increase routine physical activity of ten 7-to 14-year-old children with cystic fibrosis. In each of 3 replications of a multiple baseline design, physical activity increased only after the intervention was initiated. Eight children increased total activity 42.5% to 321 %, and 2 children exercised more consistently. Study II recorded further activity increases at 6-week follow-up. Study III validated reported activity with increases of 7% to 27% in VO2max, 8% and 31.6% in VEmax, and 14.2% and 20% in Wmax. Results suggest that a home-based contingency management program can increase physical activity among chronically ill children with cystic fibrosis. Future studies are needed to assess maintenance and possible health benefits.