A Mixed-Methods Evaluation of a Post-COVID-Condition Rehabilitation and Recovery Intervention Delivered in a Football Club Community Trust

Rimmer, Steven and Herbert, Adam J. and Kelly, Adam L. and Khawaja, Irfan and Lee, Sam and Gough, Lewis A. (2025) A Mixed-Methods Evaluation of a Post-COVID-Condition Rehabilitation and Recovery Intervention Delivered in a Football Club Community Trust. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 22 (11). p. 1672. ISSN 1660-4601

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Abstract

Aim: Post-COVID condition (PCC) is largely considered the biggest public health emergency in recent times. The role of exercise therapy in PCC is currently unknown, and evaluative studies are currently lacking in this area. This study therefore aimed to evaluate the effects of a football club community trust exercise rehabilitation programme on physical function and quality of life in individuals with PCC. Method: A mixed-methods retrospective design was employed, utilising a framework to assess the programme’s reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance (RE-AIM). Quantitative data (questionnaires and physiological assessments) were collected at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks during the programme, and at 6 months post-intervention (n = 7). Qualitative data were gathered through semi-structured focus groups at week 12 (n = 7) and 12 months (n = 5) post-intervention. Quantitative data and qualitative data were analysed using repeated measures ANOVAs and thematic analysis, respectively. Results: The programme led to significant improvements in physical function, including increased six-minute walking distance (6MWT, p < 0.001), one-minute sit-to-stand repetitions (1MSST, p < 0.035), and lung function (spirometry; MIP: p = 0.048, MEP: p = 0.024). Participants also reported enhanced QoL (HRQoL-14, p = 0.004), reduced anxiety (GAD-7, p = 0.008) and depression (PHQ-9, p = 0.008), and increased confidence and self-efficacy. The programme was well-received, with participants valuing the supportive environment and personalised approach. Conclusions: Football community trust exercise rehabilitation programmes can effectively improve physical function and quality of life in individuals with PCC, offering a promising model for community-based rehabilitation. Further studies are needed with larger sample sizes to assess the scalability of similar programmes.

Item Type:	Article
Identification Number:	10.3390/ijerph22111672
Dates:	Date Event 8 October 2025 Accepted 4 November 2025 Published Online
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Post-COVID-Condition, exercise therapy, treatment outcome, football club community trust, quality of life, physical function, mixed methods
Subjects:	CAH03 - biological and sport sciences > CAH03-02 - sport and exercise sciences > CAH03-02-01 - sport and exercise sciences
Divisions:	Life and Health Sciences > Life and Sports Sciences
Depositing User:	Gemma Tonks
Date Deposited:	12 Nov 2025 11:00
Last Modified:	12 Nov 2025 11:00
URI:	https://www.open-access.bcu.ac.uk/id/eprint/16716

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