Links > Research

For more background on the research and theories underlying the content on this website, check the links below.

Research from the Alberta Centre for Active Living

Workplace Physical Activity Framework

Much of the information in Physical Activity @ Work is based on the research in the Workplace Physical Activity Framework published by the Alberta Centre for Active Living in 2003:

Plotnikoff, R.C., Fein, A., Milton, L., Prodaniuk, T., & Mayes, V. (2003). Workplace physical activity framework. Edmonton, AB: Alberta Centre for Active Living.

The Workplace Physical Activity Framework provides a blueprint for a workplace physical activity initiative by setting out an ideal Program Standard that targets the workplace at multiple levels. Use the Program Standard with the Audit Tool to continuously assess and improve a workplace physical activity initiative.

The Workplace Physical Activity Framework recommends a multi-level approach (see the ecological models’ links below) to effectively promote physical activity in the workplace.

Links to Other Research

• Research on workplace physical activity: Link to a selection of key research abstracts on workplace physical activity on the Alberta Centre for Active Living website.

Theories and Models of Human Behaviour

These theories and models can guide the development of your workplace initiative.

• Behavior Change Theories and Models: These descriptions of behaviour change models and theories are from the U.S. Surgeon General's Report on Physical Activity and Health (Chapter 6: “Understanding and Promoting Physical Activity”).

• Social Cognitive Theory : A history, description and diagram of social cognitive theory. This theory suggests that human behaviour is an interaction between personal factors, behaviour and the environment.

• Toward a Comprehensive Model of Physical Activity: In this research abstract, Spence and Lee (2003) describe how the ecological model can be applied to physical activity.

• Transtheoretical Model: A description of the stages of change model. According to this model, people pass through five stages of change while trying to change behaviour.