Analysis of exercise behavior and influencing factors in patients with inflammatory bowel disease during remission and mild disease activity.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the distribution of exercise stages and exercise preference among patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease in remission or with mild disease activity and explore their influencing factors. METHODS: A survey was conducted among 282 patients with IBD in remission and mild disease activity, utilizing various scales and questionnaires, including a general information questionnaire, exercise preference questionnaire, Exercise Stages of Change Scale, Self-Efficacy for Exercise Scale, Exercise Benefits and Barriers Scale, and Exercise Social Support Scale. RESULTS: Among IBD participants, 48 (17.0%) were in the pre-contemplation stage, 90 (31.9%) in the contemplation stage, 29 (10.3%) in the preparation stage, 29 (10.3%) in the action stage, and 86 (30.5%) in the maintenance stage. The most preferred option for participants is exercising in the evening in residential areas or parks, primarily through individual walks, three times a week, each lasting 30 to 60 min. The median score for exercise self-efficacy was 53.5 (IQR: 38-62); the median score for exercise benefits and barriers was 145.5 (IQR: 127.8-152), with perceived exercise benefits scoring 90 (IQR: 81-106) and perceived exercise barriers scoring 40 (IQR: 43-47); the median score for exercise social support was 12 (IQR: 9-14). Educational attainment, exercise self-efficacy, social support, and perceived benefits of exercise were important factors influencing the stage of exercise. (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The findings indicate that IBD patients in remission or mild activity have suboptimal levels of regular exercise. Educational attainment significantly influences exercise behavior stages. To help IBD patients establish and maintain healthy exercise habits, strategies may focus on factors associated with exercise adherence, such as exercise self-efficacy, social support, and awareness of exercise benefits.