Bridging the gap between intervention and implementation science methodologies in physical activity research.

Authors

Jacob Szeszulski, Cassandra M Beattie, Gabrielli T de Mello, Jennie L Hill, M Renée Umstattd Meyer, Rebecca E Lee

Published in

Translational behavioral medicine. Volume 16. Issue 1. Jan 07, 2026.

Abstract

Despite substantial investment in physical activity research and the development of numerous evidence-based interventions, translation into routine practice remains slow and inconsistent. Dissemination and implementation (D&I) science offers methodological tools to address this research-to-practice gap; however, many intervention-trained physical activity researchers report uncertainty about how to design and evaluate implementation strategies and studies. This paper provides practical guidance for integrating D&I science into physical activity research by emphasizing its structural parallels with intervention science. As part of developing a D&I study, we describe how core intervention constructs-interventions, behavioral determinants, and effectiveness outcomes-align with implementation constructs-implementation strategies, determinants of implementation behavior, and implementation outcomes. Drawing on examples from school- and community-based physical activity initiatives, we illustrate how familiar tools such as logic models, behavioral theory, and multilevel design can be applied. Related to D&I study evaluation, we further clarify the strategic use of hybrid effectiveness-implementation approaches (Types I-III) and offer guidance on aligning study design with the maturity of intervention evidence and known implementation barriers. Throughout, we highlight the complementary roles of CEnR and D&I science in co-creating, evaluating, and optimizing sustainable implementation strategies. Finally, we discuss approaches to evaluating implementation outcomes, selecting frameworks such as Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance and Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research, and identifying future methodological needs in community settings. By reframing D&I science as an extension of familiar intervention principles rather than a separate methodological domain, this manuscript aims to equip physical activity researchers with conceptual clarity and practical tools to accelerate population-level impact.

PMID:
42837437
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 07 Oct 2026.

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