Evaluation of knowledge, training in, and attitude towards physical activity promotion within Scottish healthcare professionals

Physical inactivity remains a critical public health concern in the UK, contributing to over one in six deaths and imposing substantial economic costs. Despite strong evidence supporting the effectiveness of physical activity (PA) promotion in healthcare settings, delivery of PA promotion remains inconsistent. This cross-sectional survey, conducted across Scotland and supported by Public Health Scotland, explored the knowledge, attitudes, and training of healthcare professionals (HCPs) across primary and secondary care in relation to PA promotion. Quantitative data were analysed employing descriptive statistics, chi-square tests for categorical variables, and Kruskal–Wallis tests for Likert-scale data to explore differences by care setting and profession. A total of 409 HCPs responded, including a broad range of professions. Primary care professionals reported higher perceived knowledge in PA promotion and personal confidence in meeting PA guidelines than their secondary care colleagues. Physiotherapists and doctors reported the greatest perceived adequacy of training in, and subsequent confidence to deliver PA promotion, while nurses reported the lowest. Across all professions, most participants recognized PA as important for disease prevention (98.8%) and treatment (93.3%), but only 68% felt confident advising patients. The findings identify a disconnect between perceived value of PA and HCPs’ preparedness to promote it and highlight the need for standardized, interdisciplinary PA education and the integration of consistent PA messaging across healthcare settings. Targeted educational resources and system-level initiatives could enhance practitioner competence and ensure cohesive delivery of PA promotion within Scottish healthcare.