Virtual Group-based Walking Intervention for Adults with Schizophrenia-Spectrum Disorders: Psychosocial Outcome Results from a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Physical activity improves mental health in individuals with schizophrenia. Yet, limited access, low motivation, and social isolation make participation in face-to-face programs challenging. This 16-week pilot randomized controlled trial examined differences in symptoms and loneliness between adults with schizophrenia that were randomized to a virtual group-based walking program ("Virtual PACE-Life", n = 17) or Fitbit Alone (n = 20). The Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale and UCLA Loneliness scale were administered at baseline, 8 weeks, 16 weeks, and one-month follow-up. Standardized effects (SE) and confidence intervals from mixed effects models were used to evaluate group differences. Results demonstrated small-to-moderate effects (SE: 0.1-0.3) on total, negative, disorganization, excitement, and emotional distress symptoms favoring Virtual PACE-Life; however, negligible effects were observed for positive symptoms or loneliness. Despite the small sample size, these findings may suggest symptom but not loneliness benefits of a virtual group-based physical activity program for people with schizophrenia.