Using programme theory to strengthen research protocol and intervention design within an RCT of a walking intervention

This article provides a practical example of how to apply a theory-driven approach to research intervention and protocol design. It illustrates how reflection on both intervention theory and programme theory can inform and refine the: implementation of the intervention; research design; specification of research questions and tools; and, identify the contribution each research stage makes in the accumulation of policy-relevant learning. The article presents the logic models, associated theory and learning from the development of a pilot randomized control trial/feasibility study of a walking intervention targeting older adults.