When does the TeleFFIT study start?
The study will start in early 2022. Since our goal is to recruit nearly 400 people into the trial, recruitment will be ongoing for 12-18 months. People that meet our eligibility criteria will be able to join at any time during this period.
Can I choose whether I will be in the TeleFFIT or usual care group?
No, unfortunately you don’t get to choose – we don’t choose either. Everyone in the study has been randomly assigned (like the flip of a coin) to either group by a person not involved in the study so that the results will not be biased.
What am I required to do if I am allocated to the usual care group?
If you are in the usual care group you will continue to see your doctor or health professional(s) as per usual. You will also be provided with some general information about maintaining healthy bones and muscles and you will also complete the same health and physical assessments and online questionnaires as those who are assigned to the TeleFFIT group.
What is the time commitment per week if I allocated to the TeleFFIT group?
The TeleFFIT program is designed to be performed 3 times a week for approximately 25-30 minutes. In addition, you will also be asked to incorporate some stepping/bone loading activities or “exercise snacks” into your normal life activities each day. In addition, you will be asked to come to Deakin University in Burwood on 3 separate occasions over 12 months for about 2-3 hours each time to complete a number of tests.
Do I need any equipment to perform the TeleFFIT program at home?
No – you will be provided with an equipment pack (free of charge) so that you can perform the exercises at home. We ask that you wear supportive exercise footwear and comfortable clothing when you exercise.
Can I do the TeleFFIT program at a local leisure centre or gym?
Yes, you may choose to complete your TeleFFIT exercise program at a leisure centre or gym. Please keep in mind that if you do so you will need to cover the cost of any membership/entry fees.
Can I continue to do other regular activity if I am part of the TeleFFIT study?
Yes, we ask that you continue to engage in your normal activities whilst participating in this study.
What information will I be asked to provide as part of the online health assessment?
Prior to starting the study you will be asked some questions about your medical history, medications, previous exercise participation, and history of falls and fractures. This information is crucial as it will help your exercise practitioner design a program that is suited to you.
What are the assessments that I will be required to complete at Deakin University?
You will be asked to attend Deakin University in Burwood on three separate occasions – baseline (prior to the study) and at 6 and 12 months after commencing. At these visits we will assess your bone density and body composition (via DXA), muscle strength/power, balance, mobility and posture. You will also complete a small battery of physical tests at home under the supervision of a research team member via Zoom.
What’s involved with the dietitian consultations?
The purpose of the dietitian consultations is to help guide you through a healthy eating plan. You will have 4 scheduled video consultations with your dietitian throughout the 12 months. Please note that you will not be prescribed nor receive a specific dietary plan – the aim is to promote healthy eating behaviours related to optimising bone and muscle health and function.
What does it cost to participate in TeleFFIT?
There are no additional costs involved in participating in the study, however you will need a working smart device with internet connection to access the TeleFFIT program. The exercise program and app, health coaching, dietitian consultations and equipment will be given to you free of charge.
What happens if I go away during the 12-month study period?
An advantage of the TeleFFIT study is that it can be performed anywhere at any time, and so we encourage you to continue participating even while you are away so that you maintain all the health benefits.