RecruitingACTRN12625000992404

Morphofunctional Parameters and Quality of Life of People with Schizophrenia Practicing Nordic Walking

Specially Designed Exercises Utilizing Nordic Walking and Their Impact on Morphofunctional Parameters, Physical Activity Levels, and Quality of Life in Individuals with Schizophrenia: A Novel Approach to Physical Activation

Sponsor

The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education

Enrollment

30 participants

Start Date

Sep 3, 2024

Study Type

Interventional

Conditions

Postural abnormalities Body Composition Pain Physical Activity Schizophrenia

Summary

Schizophrenia, regarded as a civilization disease, often requires pharmacotherapy, which can lead to obesity and hypertension. Research suggests that physical activity can be an important support in therapy. The aim of this study is to examine the impact of a Nordic Walking program on morphofunctional parameters and the quality of life of adults diagnosed with schizophrenia. The operational goal of the project is to create a Nordic Walking program tailored for individuals with schizophrenia, which will be based on scientific evidence and can be implemented in therapeutic practice.

Eligibility

Sex: Both males and femalesMin Age: 18 YearssMax Age: 60 Yearss

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

Schizophrenia is a serious mental health condition that often requires long-term medication. While these medications are essential for managing symptoms, they can lead to weight gain, high blood pressure, and reduced physical fitness. Physical activity is known to support mental and physical health, but programs specifically designed for people with schizophrenia are rare. This study tests whether Nordic Walking — a form of walking using specially designed poles that engages the upper body and improves posture and balance — can improve physical health and quality of life for people with schizophrenia. Participants will take part in a structured Nordic Walking program designed specifically for this population. Researchers will measure body composition, cardiovascular fitness, strength, and quality of life before and after the program to assess its benefits. The goal is to develop a program that is evidence-based, enjoyable, and can be incorporated into therapeutic practice for people with schizophrenia. You may be eligible if you are aged 18–60, have a diagnosis of schizophrenia, have been cleared by a physician to participate in physical activity, and can give informed consent. People with recent musculoskeletal injuries (within two weeks), pregnancy, or an implanted pacemaker would not be eligible. This study is based in Poland.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

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Interventions

Description of intervention: The intervention consists of an 8-week Nordic Walking program for adults with schizophrenia, with three supervised sessions per week lasting 60–90 minutes each. Mate

Description of intervention: The intervention consists of an 8-week Nordic Walking program for adults with schizophrenia, with three supervised sessions per week lasting 60–90 minutes each. Materials provided: Nordic walking poles and Garmin Vivofit 4 smartbands to monitor step count and heart rate. Session structure: Two sessions per week focus on Nordic Walking technique, and one session on resistance and strengthening exercises. All sessions are held outdoors in a green environment. Procedures: The first six sessions teach proper Nordic Walking technique; the remaining eighteen sessions aim to refine technique, improve aerobic endurance, and strengthen muscles. Each session includes warm-up, main exercises, and cool-down, adapted individually based on participants’ physical and mental state. Workout examples: 1. Half-Squat with Calf Raise -Stand in a straddle stance with feet firmly on the ground. -Bend your knees into a half-squat. -Rise up onto your toes, then lower back down. 2.Arm Abduction with Resistance Band -Stand in a straddle stance with arms extended forward. -Place a resistance band around your wrists. -Move your arms outward to stretch the band, then return to the starting position. 3.Arm Raise with Resistance Band -Stand in a straddle stance with arms extended forward. -Keep the resistance band stretched around your wrists. -Raise your arms upward above your head, then lower them down while maintaining band tension. 4.Lateral Steps with Resistance Band -Stand in a straddle stance with hands on your hips. -Place a resistance band just above your ankles. -Step to the side, abducting one leg while stretching the band (walk in a half-squat position). 5.Trunk Twists with Sticks -Stand in a straddle stance holding sticks in front of your body. -Rotate your torso to one side, then return to the center. -Repeat on the opposite side. 6.Lunge with Arm Raise -Step forward into a lunge with one leg. -Keep your arms down at your sides. -Raise your arms upward, then lower them back down while holding the lunge position. Personnel: Sessions are led by a qualified and certified trainer responsible for both Nordic Walking and resistance exercises. Group size: Sessions are conducted in groups of up to 12 participants. Adherence monitoring: Attendance is recorded via checklists. Exertion levels are assessed with the Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion scale after each session. Smartband data on steps and heart rate are also monitored. Personalization: Training intensity and difficulty are adjusted weekly based on participant feedback, Borg scale scores, smartband data, and trainer observations. Organization: Sessions use varied group setups, including frontal and paired formations, to facilitate individualization and effective instruction.