Physical activity, psychiatric distress, and interest in exercise group participation among individuals seeking methadone maintenance treatment with and without chronic pain

Background and Objectives Physical activity may improve chronic pain, anxiety, and depression, which are prevalent among patients in methadone maintenance treatment (MMT), but relatively little is known about the physical activity levels or interest in exercise of patients in MMT. Methods We used a brief self‐report instrument to assess physical activity levels, chronic pain, psychiatric distress, and interest in exercise group participation among 303 adults seeking MMT. Results Most (73%) reported no moderate or vigorous intensity physical activity in the past week; 27% met recommended physical activity levels, and 24% reported interest in exercise group participation. Participants with (compared to those without) chronic pain had higher levels of psychiatric distress and were less likely to meet recommended levels of physical activity (p