Motivational Interviewing to Increase Physical Activity in Underserved Women

Regular physical activity (PA) has been shown to reduce the risk of chronic illness. Motivational Interviewing (MI) is an evidence-based practice known to improve PA in low-income women. In this project, 12 low-income women participated in 3 MI interviews oriented toward increasing PA. Of the women who consistently engaged in MI, 43% engaged in PA for 8 weeks. Women also demonstrated significant increases in confidence to engage in PA and a downward trend in pulse rate. MI offers an effective communication pattern for patients and providers interested in working together toward successful chronic disease management.