The PETIO guideline was developed to close gaps in reporting standards for randomized studies on physical exercise or training interventions in older adults and to improve their quality, transparency, and reproducibility. It focuses on key elements such as population characteristics, intervention components according to the FITT principles (frequency, intensity, time, type), adaptation, use of technology, study design, and outcome and adherence measurements.
A six-step process was used for its development, including a three-step Delphi process with experts from the European network COST Action PhysAgeNet, a comprehensive literature review, international consensus meetings, and validation by journal editors.
The final guideline includes an expanded checklist of key reporting items, such as intervention components, setting, adaptation, adverse events, and control groups. Standardized reporting is highlighted as essential for future meta-analyses and research protocols. The guideline is intended to support researchers, reviewers, and editors in improving the quality of reporting.