Despite evidence of the benefits of physical activity, most individuals with type 2 diabetes do not meet physical activity recommendations. The purpose of this study was to test the efficacy of a brief intervention targeting self-efficacy and self-regulation to increase physical activity in older adults with type 2 diabetes. Older adults (mean age 61.8 +/- 6.4) with type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome were randomized into a titrated physical activity intervention (n = 58) or an online health education course (n = 58). The intervention included walking exercise and theory-based group workshops. Self-efficacy, self-regulation and physical activity were assessed at baseline, post-intervention, and a follow-up. Results indicated a group by time effect for self-regulation F[2,88] = 14.021, p < 0.001, eta2 = 0.24 and self-efficacy F[12,77] = 2.322, p < 0.05, eta2 = 0.266) with increases in the intervention group. The intervention resulted in short-term increases in physical activity (d 0.76, p < 0.01), which were partially maintained at the 6-month follow-up (d 0.35, p < 0.01). The intervention increased short-term physical activity but was not successful at maintaining increases in physical activity. Similar intervention effects were observed in self-efficacy and self-regulation. Future research warrants adjusting intervention strategies to increase long-term change.

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