Project GYM: A randomized feasibility study investigating effect on motivation of personal trainer‐led exercise in young men with hemophilia

Abstract

Introduction Many young men with hemophilia engage in physical activity and sport but face challenges to participation because of their hemophilia. Project GYM aimed to investigate the feasibility of a hemophilia‐specific fitness program led by a personal trainer (PT) and its impact on gym activity, motivation, and adherence to exercise. Methods This was a nonblinded, randomized feasibility study, recruiting participants aged 18 to 25 years with hemophilia A or B (all severities, ± inhibitor) from three London hemophilia centers. All participants were given an activity tracker and free gym membership. Participants were randomized to a “gym only” or “gym and PT” arm. Participants completed questionnaires evaluating motivation to exercise, quality of life, physical activity levels, self‐efficacy, and self‐esteem at study start and study end. Results Of 142 eligible individuals, 19 agreed to participate. Participants were healthy, with mean body mass index and adiposity slightly lower than the UK average. They reported low bleed numbers and had good joint health (median Hemophilia Joint Health Score [HJHS], 0; range, 0‐13). The gym and PT group had more gym attendance than the gym‐only group. Seven participants increased their activity levels and nine stayed the same, with no statistical difference between groups. HJHS scores improved in 3 participants and were unchanged in 12. There was no bleeding associated with gym activity. Conclusion Project GYM has demonstrated the safety and feasibility of a tailored physical training program in young men with hemophilia. Increased gym attendance, with and without support from a PT, is associated with increased physical activity.

New thematic calls for science at Research and Practice in Thrombosis and Haemostasis

“…Fourteen published articles covered broad areas of venous thromboembolism, hemophilia, anticoagulation adherence, and the impact of anticoagulation complications on patients. I was intrigued by findings on quality of life after pulmonary embolism, 2 negative lasting effects of how providers communicate with patients at the time of diagnosis of venous thromboembolism, 3 the positive impact of fitness and personal training in people with hemophilia, 4,5 and negative impact of heavy menstrual bleeding on quality of life in people with bleeding disorders or treated with anticoagulants 6,7 . A provocative Forum on the concept of living with a “hemophilia‐free mind” was also included 8 …”

Movement behavior in hemophilia—from medicalized training approaches toward an active lifestyle

“…In this issue of Research and Practice in Thrombosis and Haemostasis , McLaughlin and colleagues 1 explore ways to support persons with hemophilia in practicing nonmedicalized exercise approaches. In this study, 19 participants were included and were given an activity tracker and a free gym membership.…”