. 2022 Jun 16;52(11):2637–2655. doi: 10.1007/s40279-022-01705-z

Table 1.

Characteristics of the included studies

Authors, sport and study location	Intervention aims, duration and data collection points	Study design and intervention details	Participants	Outcome measures	Main findings (significant, between-groups only)
Gray et al., 2013 [8] Football Fans in Training Pilot (p-FFIT) Football (soccer) Scotland	Aim: To evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of FFIT and to explore the potential of FFIT for weight loss, lifestyle and psychological measures Duration: 12 weeks Data collection: Baseline 12 weeks 6 months (intervention only) 12 months (intervention only)	Design: Two-arm pragmatic pilot RCT Intervention (p-FFIT): 12-week gender-sensitised weight loss and healthy living programme designed for male football fans. 1 × 90 min intervention session/week at respective club’s home stadium. Weekly sessions comprised classroom-based education on weight management, healthy eating, alcohol consumption and PA, and participants were taught behavioural change techniques (e.g., self-monitoring, goal setting, implementation intentions, feedback on behaviour). The practical PA component involved in-stadia, coach-led PA (including walking, cardiovascular, strength and flexibility exercises, and small-sided football games), and a pedometer-based walking programme. All participants received a standard information booklet on weight loss upon enrolment. Club-based incentives included T-shirts in club colours. Men were offered a £20 football club shop voucher for attending follow-up measurement sessions/focus group discussions Comparison: Waitlist control, participated in FFIT after a 4-month delay. Received a standard information booklet on weight loss upon enrolment (same as intervention)	Participants: 103 men aged 35–65 years (mean age = 47.1 ± 8.4 years) with a BMI of ≥ 27 kg/m² across two Scottish Premier League football clubs Intervention (n = 51), mean age = 48.2 ± 8.4 years, mean BMI = 34.5 ± 3.9 kg/m² Comparison (n = 52), mean age = 45.9 ± 8.4 years, mean BMI = 34.5 ± 6.0 kg/m² Retention: Intervention 12 weeks: 86.3%, 6 months: 80.4%, 12 months: 78.4% Comparison 12 weeks: 80.8%	Primary outcome: Feasibility and acceptability (recruitment, randomisation, data collection and retention) Secondary outcomes: Weight (kilograms and percentage change) WC Systolic and diastolic BP Body fat (percentage change) PA and sitting time (self-reported, IPAQ short form) Diet (self-reported, adapted DINE) Alcohol consumption (self-reported, 7-day recall) Psychological health (self-reported; self-esteem, RSE scale; positive and negative affect, PANAS short form) QoL (mental and physical, SF-12)	Significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) in p-FFIT vs. waitlist at 12 weeks in: ↓ weight (kg) ↓ Percentage weight loss ↓ WC ↓ Systolic BP ↓ Body fat percentage ↑ Total activity (MET min/week) ↑ Vigorous activity (MET min/week) ↑ Moderate activity (MET min/week) ↑ Breakfast consumption (times/week) ↓ Bacon/processed meats (times/week) ↓ Crisps ↑ Fruit and vegetables (times/day) ↓ Chocolates/sweets (times/day) ↓ Biscuits (times/day) ↓ Sugary drinks (times/day) ↑ Self-esteem
Hunt et al., 2014 (RCT) [10] Gray et al., 2018 (3.5-year follow-up) [29] Football Fans in Training (FFIT) Football (soccer) Scotland	Aim: To assess the effectiveness of FFIT on body weight in male football (soccer) fans Duration: 12 weeks Data collection: Baseline 12 weeks 12 months 3.5 years	Design: Two-group pragmatic RCT Intervention (FFIT): Same classroom-based content and PA sessions as Gray et al. [8]. All participants received a standard British Heart Foundation booklet on weight management at baseline. Club-based incentives included T-shirts in club colours. Participants who attended the 12-month measurements were offered a £40 club voucher 12-week active (intervention) phase followed by 6 e-mail prompts over 9 months and group reunion at 6 months post-intervention Comparison: Waitlist control, received intervention 12 months post-baseline. Participants also received a standard British Heart Foundation booklet on weight management at baseline (same as intervention)	Participants: 747 men aged 35–65 years (mean age = 47.1 ± 8.0 years) with BMI ≥ 28 kg/m² across 13 Scottish Premier League football clubs Intervention (n = 374), mean age = 47.0 ± 8.07 years, mean BMI = 35.5 ± 5.1 kg/m² Comparison (n = 373), mean age = 47.2 ± 7.89 years, mean BMI = 35.3 ± 4.9 kg/m² Retention: Intervention 12 weeks: 88.2% 12 months: 89.0% Comparison 12 weeks: 92.8% 12 months: 94.9%	Primary outcome: Weight (kilograms and percentage change) Secondary outcomes: WC BMI Body fat (percentage change) Systolic and diastolic BP PA (self-reported, IPAQ short form) Diet (self-reported, adapted DINE) Alcohol consumption (self-reported, 7-day recall) Psychological health (self-reported; self-esteem, RSE scale; positive and negative affect, PANAS short form) QoL (mental and physical, self-reported, SF-12)	Significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) in FFIT vs. waitlist at 12 weeks and 12 months in: ↓ weight (kilograms) ↓ Percentage weight loss ↓ BMI ↓ WC ↓ Body fat percentage ↓ Systolic and diastolic BP ↑ Self-reported total PA (MET min/week) ↓ Fatty food score ↑ Fruit and vegetable score ↓ Sugary food score ↓ Alcohol consumed (units/week) ↑ Self-esteem ↑ Positive affect ↓ Negative affect ↑ Physical health QoL ↑ Mental health QoL (12 weeks only, not maintained at 12 months) Long-term (3.5 year) follow-up (Gray et al., 2018 [29]) results (n = 488, 65%) No between-group differences in primary or secondary outcomes, however weight loss was sustained in both the intervention (− 2.90 kg, p < 0.001) and waitlist control groups (− 2.71 kg, p < 0.001), and changes in PA and diet were also sustained
Kwasnicka et al., 2020 [19] Aussie Fans in Training (Aussie-FIT) Australian Rules football (AFL) Australia	Aim: To test the feasibility of delivering and evaluating the preliminary efficacy of Aussie-FIT Duration: 12 weeks Data collection: Baseline 12 weeks 6 months (maintenance for intervention, ‘post-programme’ assessment for control, based on programme participation at 3 months)	Design: Two-group pilot waitlist RCT Intervention (Aussie-FIT): 12-week gender-sensitised programme comprising 1 × 90 min session/week with ~ 15 men/group (two groups/club in intervention, two groups/club in control). Sessions held at team training grounds (one professional and one lower-grade) and included classroom-based activities (focused on PA, healthy eating, weight loss, designed to teach strategies for self-regulation, goal setting, avoiding compensatory behaviours, preventing relapse) and practical PA sessions (including aerobic, strength, flexibility activities, AFL drills, small-sided games). PA increased gradually in duration and intensity as the programme progressed, while education session duration reduced. Participants could access intervention summaries via a closed programme website All participants received an Aussie-FIT booklet with session summaries, Fitbit Zip monitor, club T-shirt and reusable ‘LiveLighter’ branded water bottle. Participants also received an AU$$20 team store voucher at the completion of each assessment session Participants and Aussie-FIT coaches were invited to join closed Facebook groups. Automated text messages encouraging attendance and describing upcoming weekly sessions were sent weekly Comparison: Waitlist control group, received access to the programme at 3 months (after end of intervention follow-up)	Participants: 130 men aged 35–65 years (mean age: 45.8 ± 7.9 years) with a BMI of ≥ 28 kg/m², across two AFL clubs in Western Australia Intervention (n = 64), mean age = 44.2 ± 7.6yrs, mean BMI = 34.7 ± 4.63 kg/m² Comparison (n = 66), mean age = 47.2 ± 8.0 years, mean BMI = 35.3 ± 6.53 kg/m² Retention: Intervention 12 weeks: 78.0% 6 months: 54.0% Comparison: 12 weeks: 93.0% 6 months: 71.0%	Primary outcome: Weight (kilograms and percentage change) Secondary outcomes: WC BMI Systolic and diastolic BP PA and sedentary time (ActiGraph GTX-9 accelerometer) Diet (self-reported, Australian adaptation of DINE questionnaire) Alcohol consumption (self-reported, 7-day recall) Wellbeing (self-reported; self-esteem, RSE scale; positive and negative affect, PANAS short form) Perceptions of psychological need support for weight loss (self-reported, IBQ) Motivation for weight loss (self-reported, adapted Treatment Self-Regulation Questionnaire of weight loss motivation) Health-related QoL (self-reported, EQ-5D-5L visual analogue scale) Goal facilitation and competing goals for weight loss goals, barriers, planning, and habits for PA and healthy eating (self-reported, SRBAI) Sleep (self-reported, PSQI) Feasibility (recruitment and retention)	Significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) in Aussie-FIT vs. waitlist at 12 weeks in: ↓ Weight (kilograms) ↓ Percentage weight lost ↓ BMI ↑ MVPA (mins/day) ↓ Fatty food score ↓ Sugary food score ↑ Self-esteem ↑ Positive affect ↑ Basic need satisfaction in relation to weight loss ↑ Overall health ↑ Goal facilitation ↑ Habits for PA ↑ Habits for eating ↑ Planning ↑ Sleep quality
Maddison et al., 2019 [18] Rugby Fans in Training (RUFIT-NZ) Rugby New Zealand	Aim: To investigate the effects of a healthy lifestyle programme (RUFIT-NZ) on weight loss in overweight or obese men Duration: 12 weeks Data collection: Baseline 12 weeks	Design: Two-arm parallel design RCT Intervention (RUFIT-NZ): 12-week gender-sensitised weight loss programme, inspired by FFIT. Delivered across two clubs (Auckland, Dunedin). Auckland: 2 × 90 min sessions/week (1 × weekend (30 min education and 60 min PA), 1 × weekday (90 min PA only); Dunedin: 1 × 120–150 min session/week (60 min PA and 60–90 min education) Sessions delivered at respective clubs by RUFIT-NZ coaches, local health experts and club staff (dietitian and doctor). Standardised educational content delivered across both clubs, focused on PA, nutrition, sleep and sedentary behaviour, SMART goal setting and behaviour change strategies PA sessions: progressive, coach-led PA. Weeks 1–4: aerobic off-feet conditioning, body weight exercises; weeks 5–8: same exercises, introduction of external loads plus running; weeks 9–12: strength, aerobic and anaerobic conditioning. Small-sided rugby games held in Auckland only Control: Waitlist, offered 12-week RUFIT-NZ intervention post 12-week follow-up	Participants: 96 men aged 25–65 years with a BMI of ≥ 25 kg/m² and not meeting NZ PA guidelines, across two professional (Super 18) rugby clubs Intervention (n = 49^a), mean age = 40.6 ± 8.9 years Control (n = 47^a), mean age = 44.7 ± 8.9 years Retention: Intervention 12 weeks: 75.5% Comparison 12 weeks: 91.5%	Primary outcome: Weight (kilograms) Secondary outcomes: WC Body fat (percentage change) Resting HR Systolic and diastolic BP Cardiorespiratory fitness (4-km cycle test) Adherence to health guidelines (self-reported composite health behaviour score on smoking, PA [Godin Leisure Time PA Questionnaire], alcohol intake [AUDITC], fruit and vegetable intake [NZ Health Survey]) Feasibility (recruitment and retention)	Significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) in RUFIT-NZ vs. waitlist at 12 weeks in: ↓ WC ↓ Resting HR ↓ Diastolic BP ↑ Proportion adherent to three or more health guidelines
Petrella et al., 2017 [17] Hockey Fans in Training (Hockey FIT) Ice hockey Canada	Aim: To examine the feasibility of recruiting and retaining men in a 12-week weight loss and healthy lifestyle programme, and the impact of this programme on weight loss Duration: 12 weeks Data collection: Baseline 12 weeks 12 months (intervention only)	Design: Two-arm pilot pragmatic RCT Intervention (Hockey FIT): 12-week gender-sensitised weight loss and healthy lifestyle programme delivered at hockey team’s arena and an affiliated health club facility. Active phase: 1 × 90 min session/week, comprising classroom-based education (behaviour change techniques and information sharing on PA and nutrition, to promote mutual learning) and exercise (aerobic, strength and flexibility exercises practiced ‘off the ice’). Personalised target HR assessed and provided at two time points. Weekly sessions supplemented with an incremental pedometer-based walking programme, and PA/nutrition tracking via the HealtheSteps smartphone app Participants received a Hockey FIT branded shirt and puck, branded merchandise from the Hockey clubs, free tickets to a match if they attended the reunion/booster, and a $20 gift card to a local sporting store if they attended 12-month measurements Post-intervention, 40-week minimally supported phase: ongoing PA tracking (vie HealtheSteps app), Hockey FIT social network, six standardised messages via app/e-mail, group reunion and 60-min booster session at 9 months Comparison: Waitlist control, received programme approximately 4 months post-baseline after 12-week measurements	Participants: 80 men aged 35–65 yrs (mean age = 48.7 ± 9.0 years), with a BMI of ≥ 28 kg/m², across two Ontario Hockey League teams, Canada Intervention (n = 40), mean age = 49.1 ± 9.1 years, mean BMI = 36.0 ± 5.9 kg/m² Comparison (n = 40), mean age = 48.4 ± 9.1 years, mean BMI = 37.1 ± 6.1 kg/m² Retention: Intervention 12 weeks: 82.5% 12 months: > 75.0% Comparison 12 weeks: 85.0%	Primary outcome: Feasibility (recruitment and retention) Secondary outcomes: Weight (kilograms and percentage change) BMI WC Systolic and diastolic BP PA (Yamax Digiwalker SW-200 pedometer and self-reported, IPAQ short form) Sitting time (self-reported, IPAQ short form) Healthful eating score (self-reported, Starting the Conversation questionnaire) Diet (self-reported, adapted DINE) Alcohol consumption (self-reported, 7-day recall) Psychological health (self-reported; self-esteem, RSE scale; positive and negative affect, PANAS short form) Self-rated health (self-reported, EQ-5D-3L visual analogue scale score)	Significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) in Hockey FIT vs. waitlist at 12 weeks in: ↓ Weight (kilograms) ↓ Percentage weight lost ↓ BMI ↓ WC ↓ Systolic BP ↑ Average steps/day (pedometer measured) ↑ Healthful eating score ↓ Fatty food score ↑ Self-rated health ↑ Fruit and vegetable consumption (≥ 3 times/day)
Wyke et al., 2019 [14] European Fans in Training (EuroFIT) Football (soccer) England, The Netherlands, Norway, Portugal	Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of EuroFIT to improve physical activity and sedentary time in male football fans Duration: 12 weeks Data collection: Baseline 12 weeks 12 months	Design: Pragmatic two-arm RCT Intervention (EuroFIT): 12-week group-based programme delivered by coaches in football club stadia. 1 × 90 min session/week with 15–20 men/session, combining interactive learning of behaviour change techniques with graded group-based PA. Trained coaches taught participants to select behaviour change techniques from a ‘toolbox’ and emphasised the benefits of becoming more active, sitting less and consuming a healthier diet. Practical PA sessions were progressive and coaches were instructed to emphasise the importance of warm-up activities for injury prevention. All participants received a EuroFIT training shirt and a manual including self-monitoring forms. A pocket-worn, validated device (SitFIT) was also provided to monitor sedentary and non-sedentary time (time spent upright) in addition to daily steps. Participants were trained on the use of the SitFIT device and were encouraged to track progress against individualised, incremental goals to increase step count and time spent upright. The MatchFIT web/smartphone app was designed to track SitFIT data, to play team games and to communicate with other participants. Between-session and post-programme peer support was encouraged via the MatchFIT app or social media platforms Comparison: Waitlist control, received access to the programme 12 months post-baseline	Participants: 1113 men aged 30–65 years with a BMI of ≥ 27 kg/m² across 15 professional football clubs in England and Europe Intervention (n = 560), mean age = 45.9 ± 9.0 years, mean BMI = 33.1 ± 4.6 kg/m² Control (n = 553), mean age = 45.6 ± 8.7 years, mean BMI = 33.4 ± 4.7 kg/m² Retention: Intervention 12 weeks: 91.0% (83.0% with valid data on main outcome) 12 months: 88.0% (81.0% valid data) Control 12 weeks: 92.0% (85.0% valid data) 12 months: 92.0% (85.0% valid data)	Primary outcomes: Total PA (steps/day, objectively measured [activPAL]) Total sedentary time (mins/day, objectively measured [activPAL]) Secondary outcomes: Frequency of physically active choices (self-reported, Activity Choice Index) Diet (self-reported, adapted DINE) Alcohol consumption (self-reported, 7-day recall) PA (self-reported, IPAQ short form) Sedentary time (self-reported, Marshall questionnaire) Weight BMI WC Resting BP Fasting glucose Fasting insulin Total cholesterol HDL cholesterol Triglycerides GGT AST ALT HbA1c Insulin immunoassays HOMA_IR Wellbeing (self-reported, Cantril ladder) Self-esteem (self-reported, RSE scale) Vitality (self-reported, subjective vitality scale) Health-related QoL (EQ-5D-5L)	Significant differences (p < 0.025 for primary outcomes, p < 0.05 secondary outcomes) in EuroFIT vs. waitlist at 12 weeks and 12 months in: ↑ Steps/day ↓ Sedentary time (mins/day, 12 weeks only) ↑ Stepping time (mins/day) ↑ Upright time (12 weeks only) ↓ Weight (kilograms) ↓ BMI ↓ WC ↓ Proportion of participants with BMI ≥ 30 kg/m² ↑ Total PA (IPAQ, MET min/week) ↑ Meeting PA guidelines (IPAQ) ↓ Sitting time (Marshall, hours/day) ↑ Activity Choice Index ↓ Fatty food score ↓ Sugary food score ↑ Fruit and vegetable score ↓ Alcohol consumption (12 months only) ↓ Systolic BP (12 months only) ↓ Diastolic BP ↓ Fasting insulin (reported at 12 months only) ↓ HOMA_IR (reported at 12 months only) ↓ Triglycerides (reported at 12 months only) ↓ ALT (reported at 12 months only) ↓ GGT (reported at 12 months only) ↑ Wellbeing ↑ Self-esteem ↑ Vitality

Authors, sport and study location

Intervention aims, duration and data collection points

Study design and intervention details

Participants

Outcome measures

Main findings (significant, between-groups only)

Gray et al., 2013 [8]

Football Fans in Training Pilot (p-FFIT)

Football (soccer)

Scotland

Aim: To evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of FFIT and to explore the potential of FFIT for weight loss, lifestyle and psychological measures

Duration: 12 weeks

Data collection:

Baseline

12 weeks

6 months (intervention only)

12 months (intervention only)

Design: Two-arm pragmatic pilot RCT

Intervention (p-FFIT): 12-week gender-sensitised weight loss and healthy living programme designed for male football fans. 1 × 90 min intervention session/week at respective club’s home stadium. Weekly sessions comprised classroom-based education on weight management, healthy eating, alcohol consumption and PA, and participants were taught behavioural change techniques (e.g., self-monitoring, goal setting, implementation intentions, feedback on behaviour). The practical PA component involved in-stadia, coach-led PA (including walking, cardiovascular, strength and flexibility exercises, and small-sided football games), and a pedometer-based walking programme. All participants received a standard information booklet on weight loss upon enrolment. Club-based incentives included T-shirts in club colours. Men were offered a £20 football club shop voucher for attending follow-up measurement sessions/focus group discussions

Comparison: Waitlist control, participated in FFIT after a 4-month delay. Received a standard information booklet on weight loss upon enrolment (same as intervention)

Participants: 103 men aged 35–65 years (mean age = 47.1 ± 8.4 years) with a BMI of ≥ 27 kg/m² across two Scottish Premier League football clubs

Intervention (n = 51), mean age = 48.2 ± 8.4 years,

mean BMI = 34.5 ± 3.9 kg/m²

Comparison (n = 52), mean age = 45.9 ± 8.4 years,

mean BMI = 34.5 ± 6.0 kg/m²

Retention:

Intervention

12 weeks: 86.3%,

6 months: 80.4%,

12 months: 78.4%

Comparison

12 weeks: 80.8%

Primary outcome:

Feasibility and acceptability (recruitment, randomisation, data collection and retention)

Secondary outcomes:

Weight (kilograms and percentage change)

Systolic and diastolic BP

Body fat (percentage change)

PA and sitting time (self-reported, IPAQ short form)

Diet (self-reported, adapted DINE)

Alcohol consumption (self-reported, 7-day recall)

Psychological health (self-reported; self-esteem, RSE scale; positive and negative affect, PANAS short form)

QoL (mental and physical, SF-12)

Significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) in p-FFIT vs. waitlist at 12 weeks in:

↓ weight (kg)

↓ Percentage weight loss

↓ WC

↓ Systolic BP

↓ Body fat percentage

↑ Total activity (MET min/week)

↑ Vigorous activity (MET min/week)

↑ Moderate activity (MET min/week)

↑ Breakfast consumption (times/week)

↓ Bacon/processed meats (times/week)

↓ Crisps

↑ Fruit and vegetables (times/day)

↓ Chocolates/sweets (times/day)

↓ Biscuits (times/day)

↓ Sugary drinks (times/day)

↑ Self-esteem

Hunt et al., 2014 (RCT) [10]

Gray et al., 2018 (3.5-year follow-up) [29]

Football Fans in Training (FFIT)

Football (soccer)

Scotland

Aim: To assess the effectiveness of FFIT on body weight in male football (soccer) fans

Duration: 12 weeks

Data collection:

Baseline

12 weeks

12 months

3.5 years

Design: Two-group pragmatic RCT

Intervention (FFIT): Same classroom-based content and PA sessions as Gray et al. [8]. All participants received a standard British Heart Foundation booklet on weight management at baseline. Club-based incentives included T-shirts in club colours. Participants who attended the 12-month measurements were offered a £40 club voucher

12-week active (intervention) phase followed by 6 e-mail prompts over 9 months and group reunion at 6 months post-intervention

Comparison: Waitlist control, received intervention 12 months post-baseline. Participants also received a standard British Heart Foundation booklet on weight management at baseline (same as intervention)

Participants: 747 men aged 35–65 years (mean age = 47.1 ± 8.0 years) with BMI ≥ 28 kg/m² across 13 Scottish Premier League football clubs

Intervention (n = 374), mean age = 47.0 ± 8.07 years, mean BMI = 35.5 ± 5.1 kg/m²

Comparison (n = 373), mean age = 47.2 ± 7.89 years, mean BMI = 35.3 ± 4.9 kg/m²

Retention:

Intervention

12 weeks: 88.2%

12 months: 89.0%

Comparison

12 weeks: 92.8%

12 months: 94.9%

Primary outcome:

Weight (kilograms and percentage change)

Secondary outcomes:

BMI

Body fat (percentage change)

Systolic and diastolic BP

PA (self-reported, IPAQ short form)

Diet (self-reported, adapted DINE)

Alcohol consumption (self-reported, 7-day recall)

Psychological health (self-reported; self-esteem, RSE scale; positive and negative affect, PANAS short form)

QoL (mental and physical, self-reported, SF-12)

Significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) in FFIT vs. waitlist at 12 weeks and 12 months in:

↓ weight (kilograms)

↓ Percentage weight loss

↓ BMI

↓ WC

↓ Body fat percentage

↓ Systolic and diastolic BP

↑ Self-reported total PA (MET min/week)

↓ Fatty food score

↑ Fruit and vegetable score

↓ Sugary food score

↓ Alcohol consumed (units/week)

↑ Self-esteem

↑ Positive affect

↓ Negative affect

↑ Physical health QoL

↑ Mental health QoL (12 weeks only, not maintained at 12 months)

Long-term (3.5 year) follow-up (Gray et al., 2018 [29]) results (n = 488, 65%)

No between-group differences in primary or secondary outcomes, however weight loss was sustained in both the intervention (− 2.90 kg, p < 0.001) and waitlist control groups (− 2.71 kg, p < 0.001), and changes in PA and diet were also sustained

Kwasnicka et al., 2020 [19]

Aussie Fans in Training (Aussie-FIT)

Australian Rules football (AFL)

Australia

Aim: To test the feasibility of delivering and evaluating the preliminary efficacy of Aussie-FIT

Duration: 12 weeks

Data collection:

Baseline

12 weeks

6 months (maintenance for intervention, ‘post-programme’ assessment for control, based on programme participation at 3 months)

Design: Two-group pilot waitlist RCT

Intervention (Aussie-FIT): 12-week gender-sensitised programme comprising 1 × 90 min session/week with ~ 15 men/group (two groups/club in intervention, two groups/club in control). Sessions held at team training grounds (one professional and one lower-grade) and included classroom-based activities (focused on PA, healthy eating, weight loss, designed to teach strategies for self-regulation, goal setting, avoiding compensatory behaviours, preventing relapse) and practical PA sessions (including aerobic, strength, flexibility activities, AFL drills, small-sided games). PA increased gradually in duration and intensity as the programme progressed, while education session duration reduced. Participants could access intervention summaries via a closed programme website

All participants received an Aussie-FIT booklet with session summaries, Fitbit Zip monitor, club T-shirt and reusable ‘LiveLighter’ branded water bottle. Participants also received an AU$$20 team store voucher at the completion of each assessment session

Participants and Aussie-FIT coaches were invited to join closed Facebook groups. Automated text messages encouraging attendance and describing upcoming weekly sessions were sent weekly

Comparison: Waitlist control group, received access to the programme at 3 months (after end of intervention follow-up)

Participants: 130 men aged 35–65 years (mean age: 45.8 ± 7.9 years) with a BMI of ≥ 28 kg/m², across two AFL clubs in Western Australia

Intervention (n = 64), mean age = 44.2 ± 7.6yrs,

mean BMI = 34.7 ± 4.63 kg/m²

Comparison (n = 66), mean age = 47.2 ± 8.0 years,

mean BMI = 35.3 ± 6.53 kg/m²

Retention:

Intervention

12 weeks: 78.0%

6 months: 54.0%

Comparison:

12 weeks: 93.0%

6 months: 71.0%

Primary outcome:

Weight (kilograms and percentage change)

Secondary outcomes:

BMI

Systolic and diastolic BP

PA and sedentary time (ActiGraph GTX-9 accelerometer)

Diet (self-reported, Australian adaptation of DINE questionnaire)

Alcohol consumption (self-reported, 7-day recall)

Wellbeing (self-reported; self-esteem, RSE scale; positive and negative affect, PANAS short form)

Perceptions of psychological need support for weight loss (self-reported, IBQ)

Motivation for weight loss (self-reported, adapted Treatment Self-Regulation Questionnaire of weight loss motivation)

Health-related QoL (self-reported, EQ-5D-5L visual analogue scale)

Goal facilitation and competing goals for weight loss goals, barriers, planning, and habits for PA and healthy eating (self-reported, SRBAI)

Sleep (self-reported, PSQI)

Feasibility (recruitment and retention)

Significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) in Aussie-FIT vs. waitlist at 12 weeks in:

↓ Weight (kilograms)

↓ Percentage weight lost

↓ BMI

↑ MVPA (mins/day)

↓ Fatty food score

↓ Sugary food score

↑ Self-esteem

↑ Positive affect

↑ Basic need satisfaction in relation to weight loss

↑ Overall health

↑ Goal facilitation

↑ Habits for PA

↑ Habits for eating

↑ Planning

↑ Sleep quality

Maddison et al., 2019 [18]

Rugby Fans in Training (RUFIT-NZ)

Rugby

New Zealand

Aim: To investigate the effects of a healthy lifestyle programme (RUFIT-NZ) on weight loss in overweight or obese men

Duration: 12 weeks

Data collection:

Baseline

12 weeks

Design: Two-arm parallel design RCT

Intervention (RUFIT-NZ): 12-week gender-sensitised weight loss programme, inspired by FFIT. Delivered across two clubs (Auckland, Dunedin). Auckland: 2 × 90 min sessions/week (1 × weekend (30 min education and 60 min PA), 1 × weekday (90 min PA only); Dunedin: 1 × 120–150 min session/week (60 min PA and 60–90 min education)

Sessions delivered at respective clubs by RUFIT-NZ coaches, local health experts and club staff (dietitian and doctor). Standardised educational content delivered across both clubs, focused on PA, nutrition, sleep and sedentary behaviour, SMART goal setting and behaviour change strategies

PA sessions: progressive, coach-led PA. Weeks 1–4: aerobic off-feet conditioning, body weight exercises; weeks 5–8: same exercises, introduction of external loads plus running; weeks 9–12: strength, aerobic and anaerobic conditioning. Small-sided rugby games held in Auckland only

Control: Waitlist, offered 12-week RUFIT-NZ intervention post 12-week follow-up

Participants: 96 men aged 25–65 years with a BMI of ≥ 25 kg/m² and not meeting NZ PA guidelines, across two professional (Super 18) rugby clubs

Intervention (n = 49^a), mean age = 40.6 ± 8.9 years

Control (n = 47^a), mean age = 44.7 ± 8.9 years

Retention:

Intervention

12 weeks: 75.5%

Comparison

12 weeks: 91.5%

Primary outcome:

Weight (kilograms)

Secondary outcomes:

Body fat (percentage change)

Resting HR

Systolic and diastolic BP

Cardiorespiratory fitness (4-km cycle test)

Adherence to health guidelines (self-reported composite health behaviour score on smoking, PA [Godin Leisure Time PA Questionnaire], alcohol intake [AUDITC], fruit and vegetable intake [NZ Health Survey])

Feasibility (recruitment and retention)

Significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) in RUFIT-NZ vs. waitlist at 12 weeks in:

↓ WC

↓ Resting HR

↓ Diastolic BP

↑ Proportion adherent to three or more health guidelines

Petrella et al., 2017 [17]

Hockey Fans in Training (Hockey FIT)

Ice hockey

Canada

Aim: To examine the feasibility of recruiting and retaining men in a 12-week weight loss and healthy lifestyle programme, and the impact of this programme on weight loss

Duration: 12 weeks

Data collection:

Baseline

12 weeks

12 months (intervention only)

Design: Two-arm pilot pragmatic RCT

Intervention (Hockey FIT): 12-week gender-sensitised weight loss and healthy lifestyle programme delivered at hockey team’s arena and an affiliated health club facility. Active phase: 1 × 90 min session/week, comprising classroom-based education (behaviour change techniques and information sharing on PA and nutrition, to promote mutual learning) and exercise (aerobic, strength and flexibility exercises practiced ‘off the ice’). Personalised target HR assessed and provided at two time points. Weekly sessions supplemented with an incremental pedometer-based walking programme, and PA/nutrition tracking via the HealtheSteps smartphone app

Participants received a Hockey FIT branded shirt and puck, branded merchandise from the Hockey clubs, free tickets to a match if they attended the reunion/booster, and a $20 gift card to a local sporting store if they attended 12-month measurements

Post-intervention, 40-week minimally supported phase: ongoing PA tracking (vie HealtheSteps app), Hockey FIT social network, six standardised messages via app/e-mail, group reunion and 60-min booster session at 9 months

Comparison: Waitlist control, received programme approximately 4 months post-baseline after 12-week measurements

Participants: 80 men aged 35–65 yrs (mean age = 48.7 ± 9.0 years), with a BMI of ≥ 28 kg/m², across two Ontario Hockey League teams, Canada

Intervention (n = 40), mean age = 49.1 ± 9.1 years, mean BMI = 36.0 ± 5.9 kg/m²

Comparison (n = 40), mean age = 48.4 ± 9.1 years,

mean BMI = 37.1 ± 6.1 kg/m²

Retention:

Intervention

12 weeks: 82.5%

12 months: > 75.0%

Comparison

12 weeks: 85.0%

Primary outcome:

Feasibility (recruitment and retention)

Secondary outcomes:

Weight (kilograms and percentage change)

BMI

Systolic and diastolic BP

PA (Yamax Digiwalker SW-200 pedometer and self-reported, IPAQ short form)

Sitting time (self-reported, IPAQ short form)

Healthful eating score (self-reported, Starting the Conversation questionnaire)

Diet (self-reported, adapted DINE)

Alcohol consumption (self-reported, 7-day recall)

Psychological health (self-reported; self-esteem, RSE scale; positive and negative affect, PANAS short form)

Self-rated health (self-reported, EQ-5D-3L visual analogue scale score)

Significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) in Hockey FIT vs. waitlist at 12 weeks in:

↓ Weight (kilograms)

↓ Percentage weight lost

↓ BMI

↓ WC

↓ Systolic BP

↑ Average steps/day (pedometer measured)

↑ Healthful eating score

↓ Fatty food score

↑ Self-rated health

↑ Fruit and vegetable consumption (≥ 3 times/day)

Wyke et al., 2019 [14]

European Fans in Training (EuroFIT)

Football (soccer)

England, The Netherlands, Norway, Portugal

Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of EuroFIT to improve physical activity and sedentary time in male football fans

Duration: 12 weeks

Data collection:

Baseline

12 weeks

12 months

Design: Pragmatic two-arm RCT

Intervention (EuroFIT): 12-week group-based programme delivered by coaches in football club stadia. 1 × 90 min session/week with 15–20 men/session, combining interactive learning of behaviour change techniques with graded group-based PA. Trained coaches taught participants to select behaviour change techniques from a ‘toolbox’ and emphasised the benefits of becoming more active, sitting less and consuming a healthier diet. Practical PA sessions were progressive and coaches were instructed to emphasise the importance of warm-up activities for injury prevention. All participants received a EuroFIT training shirt and a manual including self-monitoring forms. A pocket-worn, validated device (SitFIT) was also provided to monitor sedentary and non-sedentary time (time spent upright) in addition to daily steps. Participants were trained on the use of the SitFIT device and were encouraged to track progress against individualised, incremental goals to increase step count and time spent upright. The MatchFIT web/smartphone app was designed to track SitFIT data, to play team games and to communicate with other participants. Between-session and post-programme peer support was encouraged via the MatchFIT app or social media platforms

Comparison: Waitlist control, received access to the programme 12 months post-baseline

Participants: 1113 men aged 30–65 years with a BMI of ≥ 27 kg/m² across 15 professional football clubs in England and Europe

Intervention (n = 560), mean age = 45.9 ± 9.0 years, mean BMI = 33.1 ± 4.6 kg/m²

Control (n = 553), mean age = 45.6 ± 8.7 years, mean BMI = 33.4 ± 4.7 kg/m²

Retention:

Intervention

12 weeks: 91.0% (83.0% with valid data on main outcome)

12 months: 88.0% (81.0% valid data)

Control

12 weeks: 92.0% (85.0% valid data)

12 months: 92.0% (85.0% valid data)

Primary outcomes:

Total PA (steps/day, objectively measured [activPAL])

Total sedentary time (mins/day, objectively measured [activPAL])

Secondary outcomes:

Frequency of physically active choices (self-reported, Activity Choice Index)

Diet (self-reported, adapted DINE)

Alcohol consumption (self-reported, 7-day recall)

PA (self-reported, IPAQ short form)

Sedentary time (self-reported, Marshall questionnaire)

Weight

BMI

Resting BP

Fasting glucose

Fasting insulin

Total cholesterol

HDL cholesterol

Triglycerides

GGT

AST

ALT

HbA1c

Insulin immunoassays

HOMA_IR

Wellbeing (self-reported, Cantril ladder)

Self-esteem (self-reported, RSE scale)

Vitality (self-reported, subjective vitality scale)

Health-related QoL (EQ-5D-5L)

Significant differences (p < 0.025 for primary outcomes, p < 0.05 secondary outcomes) in EuroFIT vs. waitlist at 12 weeks and 12 months in:

↑ Steps/day

↓ Sedentary time (mins/day, 12 weeks only)

↑ Stepping time (mins/day)

↑ Upright time (12 weeks only)

↓ Weight (kilograms)

↓ BMI

↓ WC

↓ Proportion of participants with BMI ≥ 30 kg/m²

↑ Total PA (IPAQ, MET min/week)

↑ Meeting PA guidelines (IPAQ)

↓ Sitting time (Marshall, hours/day)

↑ Activity Choice Index

↓ Fatty food score

↓ Sugary food score

↑ Fruit and vegetable score

↓ Alcohol consumption (12 months only)

↓ Systolic BP (12 months only)

↓ Diastolic BP

↓ Fasting insulin (reported at 12 months only)

↓ HOMA_IR (reported at 12 months only)

↓ Triglycerides (reported at 12 months only)

↓ ALT (reported at 12 months only)

↓ GGT (reported at 12 months only)

↑ Wellbeing

↑ Self-esteem

↑ Vitality

RCT randomised controlled trial, PA physical activity, BMI body mass index, WC waist circumference, BP blood pressure, DINE Dietary Instrument for Nutrition Education, RSE Rosenberg Self-Esteem scale, PANAS Positive and Negative Affect Schedule, QoL quality of life, HR heart rate, SF-12 Short Form 12, EQ-5D-3L European Quality of Life–5 Dimensions Questionnaire–3 Levels, EQ-5D-5L European Quality of Life–5 Dimensions Questionnaire–5 Levels, MET metabolic equivalent, MVPA moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, IPAQ International Physical Activity Questionnaire, HDL high-density lipoprotein, GGT gamma-glutamyl transferase, AST aspartate aminotransferase, ALT alanine aminotransferase, HbA1c haemoglobin A1c, HOMA_IR Homeostasis model-estimated insulin resistance, IBQ Interpersonal Behaviours Questionnaire, SRBAI Self-Report Behavioural Automaticity Index, PSQI Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, AUDITC Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test Consumption, app application, ↑ indicates increased, ↓ indicates decreased

^a Only 45 intervention and 39 control participants (87.5% of the reported sample) completed baseline assessments