The effect of the walking exercise training given according to transtheoretical model, and follow-up on improving exercise behavior and metabolic control in type 2 diabetic patients

Objective: This study aims to find out the effects of walking exercise training, which is given according to Transtheoretic Model (TTM), and follow-up on improving exercise behavior and metabolic control in type 2 diabetic patients. Material and Method: The study was conducted as a pre-test, post-test experimental model with 76 experimental groups and 76 control groups adult type 2 diabetic patients providing the criteria of the study, residing in the provincial center, and followed-up by the diabetes polyclinic of Adıyaman Education and Research Hospital. Patient introduction form (PIF), TTM scales and pedometer were used to collect the data. TTM based training was given to the experimental group according to the patients' change stages at hospital 10 weeks once per every 2 weeks. PIF, TTM scales were applied after the training, and the patients were followed-up for 6 months. PIF, TTM scales were applied to the groups 9 months after the pre-test again. The data were collected between October 2015 and November 2016, and evaluated using descriptive statistics, chi-square, Mauchly, Friedman, Mc Nemar X2, t-test in independent and dependent groups, Anova, Pearson correlation and Cronbach's Alpha analysis. Results: In the experimental group, 75% progression was determined at the change stages towards the final test (p<0.001). In the final test, the overall score averages for the exercise change processes, decision-making balance and self-efficacy scales increased compared to the pre-test, and the difference between the groups was found significant. In the final test, overall score averages of exercise change processes, decision-making balance and self-efficacy scales increased compared to the pre-test. The mean of the metabolic output of the individuals (FBS, SBS, total cholesterol, HbA1c, LDL, triglyceride, diastolic and systolic BP) in the experimental group decreased in the final test compared to the pre-test, but the mean HDL and average number of steps per day increased, and the difference between the groups was significant (p <0.05). The BMI also decreased in the final test. Conclusions: It is found out that the walking exercise training, which is given according to TTM, and fallow-up is effective in providing acquisition of exercise behavior, and achieving metabolic control in type 2 diabetic patients.