Development of the Physical Activity Research Opportunities (PARO) framework.

purposePhysical activity is beneficial across the lifespan, but most Americans do not meet physical activity guidelines. Multiple sources exist that identify opportunities to address gaps in physical activity research knowledge and implementation. Several of these opportunities have important considerations for populations experiencing health inequities. The goal of this study was to identify, synthesize, and categorize opportunities for research (i.e., systematic investigations to develop generalizable knowledge) into a conceptual framework to advance physical activity research in a cohesive and efficient manner.

methodsThe National Collaborative on Childhood Obesity Research convened subject matter experts to conduct five qualitative document analysis steps: (1) identify sources published by United States government, intergovernmental, or national non-profit organizations related to physical activity, (2) review sources to extract research opportunities, (3) code the opportunities by variables (translational research phase, social ecological level, setting, and priority population) determined by the expert group, (4) synthesize data on similar opportunities, and (5) review crosstabulation data to examine coding patterns and develop a framework.

resultsOpportunities (n = 385) were extracted from sources (n = 11) and combined into condensed opportunity statements (n = 87). Most called for effectiveness research (n = 44, 51%) or dissemination and implementation science research (n = 14, 16%). 38% were related to policy, systems, and environmental interventions (n = 33), and 70% mentioned community settings (n = 61). Additionally, 76% did not include health equity considerations (n = 66), and 75% mentioned no specific population or populations across the lifespan (n = 65). The resultant Physical Activity Research Opportunities (PARO) framework details opportunities by translational research phase (methods/measures development, etiology, efficacy, effectiveness, dissemination and implementation, and surveillance) and social ecological level (individual or interpersonal, policy/systems/environmental, and crosscutting), including health equity considerations.

conclusionsThe resultant PARO framework highlights gaps in current evidence and reveals opportunities for physical activity funders, researchers, policymakers, and practitioners to strategically advance their work. There are prospects for designing efficacy and effectiveness trials with an eye toward dissemination and implementation, developing strategies for improving dissemination and implementation, and using community- and practitioner-engaged approaches across translational research phases to advance health equity. Health equity can also be addressed by tailoring interventions, enhancing reach to priority populations, and improving social determinants of health.