How clinicians discuss activity may matter

Achievable goals, activity tracking, and social support are among the strategies JAMA researchers recommend for patients with chronic medical conditions.

By
Andrea Surnit
August 18, 2026
4 min

MDSpire News

Objective:

To provide practical approaches for clinicians to discuss physical activity with patients who have chronic medical conditions, acknowledging the unique challenges these patients face.

Approach:

Evidence Synthesis: The article synthesized evidence from randomized trials, prospective cohort studies, systematic reviews, and qualitative research to inform practical approaches.

Key Findings:

Smaller increases in physical activity can still provide health benefits.
Increasing moderate-to-vigorous physical activity by 5 minutes per day could prevent 10% of all deaths in most participants.
Self-monitoring and behavioral goal setting are effective techniques for increasing activity.
Wearable devices can enhance activity levels by providing feedback and tracking.
Social support contributes to maintaining physical activity.

Interpretation:

How physicians discuss physical activity can influence patients' perceptions and motivation. Effective communication should acknowledge barriers and frame physical activity positively.

Limitations:

The article is a clinical guidance article and not a primary investigation or systematic review, lacking a single study population, prespecified primary outcome, or overall effect estimate.
Recommendations are based on studies with varying designs, populations, and outcomes.

Conclusion:

Discussions about physical activity should be personalized to each patient's context and needs, focusing on manageable increases and the importance of social support.