Can a workplace exercise intervention increase regular exercise participation, fitness and reduce cardiovascular disease risk in university staff?

Two intervention groups will be involved (directly supervised and indirectly supervised groups). Participants in the directly supervised group will receive 1:1 exercise supervision, while participants in the indirectly supervised group will receive standard supervision (typically 1:5 to 1:10 supervisor:participant ratio). Participants from both exercise interventions will receive an exercise program incorporating aerobic, resistance, balance and flexibility training. Participants are required to complete the exercise program twice per week, with each session lasting 60 minutes. Exercise sessions will be performed at a moderate-vigorous intensity (55-85% heart rate reserve) as per American College of Sports Medicine guidelines. The supervisor’s role is to provide guidance (e.g. exercise technique) and motivation for the participant. Supervision will be provided by third year undergraduate Exercise and Sports Science students, directly overseen by an Accredited Exercise Physiologist (Exercise and Sports Science Australia) who is responsible for all testing and exercise prescription. Exercise will be performed at an on-site gymnasium and on-site athletics track. The total duration of the exercise intervention is 16 weeks, with testing at baseline, 8 weeks, 16 weeks, 26 weeks and 52 weeks. Adherence to the exercise program will be encouraged through 1:1 supervision, with adherence being monitored with a log book detailing session attendance and exercises performed.