Prediabetes
MOVE IT: Self-Compassion and Physical Activity Experiences
Article full title: Experiences of people with prediabetes in a self-compassion and physical activity intervention: a qualitative study using participatory Theme Elicitation
Study aims: To better understand how women with prediabetes experienced a program that combined physical activity support with self-compassion skills, such as learning to be less self-critical and more understanding toward themselves.
What we did: We ran an 8-week online group program called MOVE IT for women with prediabetes. The program helped participants set physical activity goals while also learning skills to manage self-criticism, cope with setbacks, and treat themselves with more kindness. We listened to and reviewed conversations from the group sessions to understand participants’ experiences. A unique part of this study was that former program participants did not just take part in the research — they also worked alongside the research team to help analyze the group discussions and identify the most important ideas and themes. This helped ensure the findings reflected participants’ real experiences and perspectives.
What we found: Participants described becoming more aware of the thoughts, emotions, and challenges that affected their physical activity. Over time, many shifted from being hard on themselves to responding with more patience and self-kindness when things did not go as planned. Participants also shared that self-compassion strategies and support from others in the group helped them stay motivated and continue being active. For many, these changes gradually became part of their everyday lives.