What works in real-world implementation? Practice-based insights from the ENJOY IMP-ACT project promoting physical activity among older adults.

Physical inactivity among older adults remains a significant public health issue. Age-friendly active spaces with the Seniors Exercise Park equipment in local parks offer an accessible, low-cost opportunity to promote health through physical activity. The ENJOY IMP-ACT project was a multi-site implementation initiative aimed at scaling up the use of the Seniors Exercise Park across six sites in Victoria, Australia. This paper examines factors influencing implementation and uptake. A descriptive practice-based implementation insights approach was used to evaluate the ENJOY IMP-ACT project. Data sources included staff field notes, meeting minutes and park-based activity tracking. Insights were categorized using the TERM framework: training, engagement, resource development, and marketing. Additional analysis considered environmental and organizational factors affecting delivery and uptake. Coordinated planning with local government staff, flexible timelines, and tailored training delivery supported effective program implementation. Local governments with dedicated project officers, clear internal processes, and targeted community engagement strategies demonstrated higher levels of participation. Site visibility, access to amenities, and proactive promotion influenced park usage. Organizational factors, such as changes in staff or limited resources, created barriers to continuity. Efforts to adapt to local contexts, such as modifying training models or leveraging community events, were also important for success. The ENJOY IMP-ACT project highlights the value of a flexible, multi-components implementation framework supported by local partnerships. Consideration of both environmental and organizational factors is essential for sustained delivery of age-friendly health promotion initiatives. These findings offer actionable insights to guide future scale-up efforts in community settings. Trial registration This trial is prospectively registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry. Trial registration number ACTRN12622001256763. Date registered 20/09/2022. https://www.anzctr.org.au/ACTRN12622001256763.aspx.