Effects of a Promotor-Based Intervention to Promote Physical Activity: Familias Sanas y Activas

Authors: Guadalupe X. Ayala

Latinos are the largest and fastest growing minority group in the United States and are among the most overweight. As in other populations, obesity contributes to several of the leading causes of illness and death. This study tested a train-the-trainer, promotor-based physical activity (PA) intervention to improve fitness and health indicators. Thirty unpaid promotores were trained to promote PA through free exercise classes. Mixed effects models showed intervention participation improved systolic blood pressure, waist circumference, fitness, and hamstring flexibility. It also noted improvements in use of community resources, depressed mood and anhedonia, perceived barriers to be physically active, and community support for PA. In conclusion, promotores can increase PA in their community and achieve meaningful changes in the residents’ health.