Study of an 8-Week Adapted Physical Activity Program Added to Usual Treatment for Anorexia Nervosa in Patients Aged 12 to 40 Years

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to evaluate the effect of adding an 8-week standardized Adapted Physical Activity APA program to usual care for people with anorexia nervosa. Anorexia nervosa patients often engage in excessive physical activity, which can interfere with nutrition and cause health complications. The study hypothesizes that including the APA program, which incorporates psychoeducation about problematic physical activity and healthy exercise habits, will improve treatment outcomes such as body mass index and overall health. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups one receiving the usual treatment for anorexia nervosa in day hospital or inpatient programs according to HAS guidelines, and the other receiving the same usual care plus the APA program. The APA involves eight weekly sessions of 1.5 hours each, focusing on adapted physical activity and psychoeducation to promote safe exercise practices. The program is designed to improve treatment adherence and reduce conflicts related to physical activity restrictions. During the study, participants will be assessed at the start and end of the 9-week program, as well as 6 months later. Evaluations will include body mass index changes, body composition by bioelectric impedance, physical activity levels, fitness perception, self-esteem, body shape perception, quality of life, symptoms of anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, and treatment dropout rates. These assessments involve questionnaires, physical tests, and monitoring of physical activity. The total participation includes the 8-week program plus follow-up assessments to observe lasting effects.

Adapted Physical Activity in the Treatment of Anorexia: