Targeting Physical Health in Schizophrenia: Physical Activity Can Enhance Life Randomized Control Trial

Purpose: To test the effectiveness of an exercise intervention that combines group walking, activity tracking, and heart rate monitoring (i.e. Physical Activity can Enhance Life, PACE-Life) on the physical and mental health for individuals with schizophrenia spectrum disorder. Participants: 50 individuals with schizophrenia spectrum disorders. Procedures (methods): During the baseline assessment, which can be completed virtually and in-person (based on participant preference) all participants will be provided with a Fitbit wristband and instructed how to use it. During the first group session, participants will be taught how to use their heart rate (on the Fitbit) to determine how fast participants should walk (to achieve the appropriate exercise dosage). Information on proper care, usage, and how to determine the appropriate heart rate from the watch, to guide the intensity of the walk, will be provided to participants and reviewed at each group session. Participants randomly assigned to the PACE Life virtual walking group sessions will meet the other group members and group leaders and be reminded of the heart rate (HR) that corresponds with the intensity of that group session. Next, the group will exercise for 15 minutes in the first two weeks, progressing to 30-minute walking sessions over the course of the intervention. At the completion of the sessions, everyone will take a break for water and review the walk. After the second group session of each week, participants will receive weekly progress reports of their steps and minutes spent walking the prior week (obtained from Fitbit devices). During this session, participants will also set individual goals for the upcoming week for both their "intensity walks" and total steps per day. Participants randomly assigned to Fitbit Alone will be given a Fitbit and shown how to use it by study staff. Participants will also be given information on current recommended physical activity guidelines (150 min/week of moderate intensity exercise) and will be told that study staff may be contacting them on a weekly basis (or shorter, if necessary) if it looks like participants are not wearing their Fitbit for a certain number of days (e.g. 3 consecutive days) or to troubleshoot any issues. If necessary, participants might be invited to meet with research staff to get assistance on any Fitibit or exercise-related issues.