Promoting Physical Activity in Hispanic Adults: A Systematic Review of Interventions From 2018-2023

Abstract

Objective

The systematic review examined the efficacy of theory-based and culturally tailored physical activity (PA) interventions for Hispanic adults.

Data Source

A systematic search of Medline, PubMed, ERIC, CINAHL, APA PsychInfo, and SPORTDiscus.

Study Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria

Studies published between May 2018 and May 2023 were included if they targeted Hispanic adults, incorporated PA as a primary outcome, and were conducted in the United States.

Methods

Screening followed PRISMA guidelines and protocol is registered in PROSPERO (CRD42025630372). Titles and abstracts were reviewed independently by two researchers. Full-text review and data extraction captured sample characteristics, theoretical frameworks, intervention strategies, PA outcomes, and measurement tools.

Data Extraction

1139 articles were scrutinized, and 21 studies met the inclusion criteria.

Data Synthesis

Extracted variables included demographic characteristics, theoretical frameworks, intervention strategies, physical activity outcomes, and measurement tools.

Results

Of the 21 included studies, 13 reported statistically significant increases in physical activity, often ranging from 54 to 146 additional minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity per week. Interventions guided by theoretical frameworks, such as Social Cognitive Theory and the Transtheoretical Model, were more likely to demonstrate efficacy. Promotor-led and community-based programs yielded high engagement and improved outcomes, with some studies achieving step count increases of up to 9000 steps/day and 47% of participants meeting national PA guidelines. In contrast, 4 of the 6 studies lacking a theoretical framework showed no significant improvements. Common barriers included cultural norms, time constraints, and access limitations.

Conclusion

Culturally tailored and theory-based interventions, particularly those using promotores and community collaboration, are effective in increasing PA among Hispanic adults. Future research should prioritize larger sample sizes, integrate mixed assessment methods, recruit men and the elderly, and explore long-term sustainability. Expanding culturally relevant strategies can help reduce health disparities and improve outcomes in this growing demographic.