Table 1 Intervention schedule, topics, and activities

Session 1

Introductory session

Introduction to program

What is physical activity and sedentary behaviour? Participants receive an individualised physical activity report based on accelerometer measured physical activity

The health of Arab-Australians (e.g., general health, physical activity levels, cultural factors influencing physical activity participation)

SMART goals (discussion and setting short and long-term goals)

Physical activity session—warm up, light-moderate intensity strength-based activities, cool down

Session 2

Physical inactivity versus sedentary behaviour and the influence of traditional gender norms on physical activity

The distinction between physical inactivity and sedentary behaviour

Traditional gender roles and its impact on physical activity participation

Discussion on strategies to increase physical activity—discussions based on current and previous barriers encountered

Revisiting SMART goals

Physical activity session—warm up, Pilates, cool down

Session 3

Interpersonal support and maintenance for physical activity

Interpersonal support and physical activity

Maintenance—discussion on strategies for maintenance and discussion on any self-reported changes in physical activity and sedentary behaviour habits (progress monitoring)

Strategies to increase physical activity—discussions based on current and previous barriers encountered

Physical activity session—warm up, Dancing/Zumba, cool down

Session 4

Chronic disease and physical activity among Arab-Australians

Chronic disease among Arab-Australians—discussion of rates of chronic disease experienced among Arab-Australians (comparisons made by physical activity level and with non-Arab populations)

Physical activity among Arab-Australian populations—discussion on impact of acculturation, potential reasons for physical activity decline, aspects of Arab culture influencing participation, and ways to address physical activity decline

Strategies to increase physical activity—discussions based on current and previous barriers encountered

Physical activity session—warm up, light-moderate intensity strength-based activities, cool down

Session 5

Mental health and motivation

Physical activity and mental health—discussion of the benefits of physical activity towards mental health and reasons why physical activity makes us feel better. Discussion on physical activity and stress/stress management

Motivation for physical activity—discussion on time management, overcoming laziness, and sustaining motivation in the long-term

Strategies to increase physical activity—discussion based on current and previous barriers encountered

Physical activity session—warm up, Pilates, cool down

Session 6

Conclusion of intervention and long-term maintenance

Program revision—revision quiz and recap of topics covered throughout program

Revisiting SMART goals and preparation for post-intervention physical activity maintenance

Group discussions and interactive activities—recap strategies learnt and implemented and also discussions on long-term physical activity maintenance

Q and A—opportunity for participants to ask questions about any topics covered

Physical activity session—warm up, Dancing/Zumba, cool down