Considerations for developing and implementing an online community-based exercise intervention with adults living with HIV: a qualitative study

OBJECTIVES: To describe the need for, and utility of, online community-based exercise (CBE) interventions with adults living with HIV and identify factors to consider in developing and implementing an online CBE intervention with adults living with HIV. DESIGN: Qualitative descriptive study using web-based semistructured interviews. PARTICIPANTS: We recruited adults representing at least one of five stakeholder groups with experience in CBE and/or HIV: (1) adults living with HIV, (2) rehabilitation professionals, (3) fitness personnel, (4) educators with eLearning experience and (5) representatives from HIV community-based organisations (CBOs). DATA COLLECTION: We asked participants to describe their experiences with online CBE, need and utility for online CBE and factors in developing and implementing online CBE interventions. We analysed data using a group-based thematic analytical approach. RESULTS: Among the 11 participants, most had experience working with adults living with HIV (73%) or with telehealth/rehabilitation/coaching in HIV or other chronic conditions (91%). Participants (eight women; two men; one non-binary; median age: 49 years), identified the need and utility for online CBE interventions to increase accessibility and continuity of care with adults living with HIV. Six factors to consider in developing and implementing online CBE included: (1) person-specific considerations (episodic nature of HIV, stigma, HIV disclosure), (2) accessibility of programme (physical space to exercise, reliable internet, access to devices, digital literacy), (3) programme delivery and technology (live vs prerecorded online classes, multiple online platforms for delivery, physical activity tracking, troubleshooting technology), (4) attributes of programme personnel (working with CBOs, relatable instructors, diverse staff), (5) programme content and design (tailored exercise classes, educational sessions) and (6) building community (shared experiences, peer support, social opportunities). CONCLUSIONS: There is a need and utility for online CBE in the context of HIV. Considerations for development and implementation span individual, structural and technical, and community dimensions. Results can inform the future development and implementation of online CBE with adults living with HIV and other chronic episodic conditions.