Abstract
Introduction: Community-based organizations like Adaptavie and Viomax provide physical activity (PA) programs that promote the overall health of people with disabilities. However, the organizations have expressed a need for evidence-based optimization of their programs, specifically, training their kinesiologists. The purpose of this study was to understand the needs for training kinesiologists at Adaptavie and Viomax. Methods: Through an integrated knowledge translation approach, a working group (N=8) was formed consisting of staff and kinesiologists from Adaptavie/Viomax, and researchers. Nominal group technique was used to obtain consensus during the two working group meetings. This methodology provides a structured procedure where group members can generate, discuss, and rank ideas. In both meetings, each group member was asked to create a list of all ideas, rank them in order of priority on a scale from 1-10, and organize ideas into categories on google Jamboard. The content was then analyzed to identify key training themes. Results: The working group met twice on Zoom, for 6 hours total. After meetings 1 and 2, the working group generated 59 and 65 ideas, respectively. These ideas and sub-content were grouped into three themes: 1) standardizing the kinesiologists' role; which includes policies and procedures for being a kinesiologist, professional communication, and overview of resources, 2) behavioural change training with content on person-centred communication and coaching of behaviour change techniques; and 3) adapted PA prescription. Conclusion: Understanding the training resources needed for kinesiologists working at Adaptavie and Viomax will optimize support for people with disabilities to participate in PA.Acknowledgments: Mitacs Accelerate, Inclusive Society