Follow‐up study of an integrated weight management and fitness programme

Purpose – The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of 14 cohorts of patients recruited into an integrated weight management and fitness programme in a high secure psychiatric hospital.Design/methodology/approach – Body measurements and fitness parameters were measured before commencement and after completion of the programme.Findings – Of the 206 patients recruited for the first time to one of 14 programmes, 120 (58 per cent) patients completed their programme, of these 76/120 (63 per cent) lost weight with a mean weight loss of 1.3 kg (sd 3.7). Statistically significant improvements were recorded for hand strength (p<0.005), flexibility (p<0.0001), peak expiratory flow (p<0.0001) and aerobic capacity (p<0.0001). There were no significant changes in systolic blood pressure and resting heart rate, although there was a significant decrease in diastolic blood pressure (p<0.05).Research limitations/implications – It was not possible to undertake an economic analysis. Motivation to lose weight was not...