Background: Rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) are a leading cause of disability in Europe [1]. In Norway, RMDs significantly reduce health and quality of life and are among the main causes of sick leave, reduced work capacity, and disability [2]. At the same time, mental health problems are widespread and have increased markedly over the past decade [3]. Living with RMDs involves chronic pain and reduced physical function, which can lead to inactivity and social isolation, both negative for physical and mental health [4]. Studies show that people with RMDs are less physically active than recommended [5], likely due to pain, stiffness, stress, depressive symptoms, illness perceptions, and low confidence in their ability to be physically active [6]. Research consistently shows that physical activity is particularly important for people with RMDs, and when it is done regularly, it can improve pain, physical function, and quality of life [7]. Physical activity also has positive effects on mental health [8] and may be especially beneficial when performed in groups. This aligns with the ABC framework for mental health, which emphasizes being active, belonging to social contexts, and engaging in meaningful activities as key elements in strengthening mental health [9], highlighting the potential of group-based physical activity to support both mental well-being and social participation.

Objectives: Develop a nationwide concept within the Norwegian Rheumatism Association (NRF) that promotes physical activity and strengthens social community among members, in response to the physical and mental health challenges associated with RMDs.

Methods: A group of NRF employees developed the concept “Active Together – a team-based activity competition for local groups.” The competition aimed to motivate members to start being physically active or to try new activities, while supporting each other in building sustainable habits that could continue beyond the competition period. All NRF members were eligible to participate. In collaboration with a marketing agency, a website was developed where participants registered as users affiliated with a local group. Participants logged the type of activity and the number of minutes spent. Activities were grouped into four categories: pool-based activities (e.g. warm water training, swimming), walking (e.g. walking in nature, stairs, errands), training (e.g. cycling, yoga, group or strength training), and daily activities (e.g. housework, gardening). Winners were selected after each competition period, with varying criteria between periods, for example, most active participant, most active local team, and similar. This approach helped maintain engagement and reduced the risk of participants exploiting the system to increase their chances of winning.

Results: Active Together has been held four times, spring 2023 (n=799), autumn 2023 (n=808), spring 2024 (n=1059) and spring 2025 (n=729). The competition periods lasted between four and eight weeks. There was a total of 3395 members who registered as a user, of these, 3003 members registered activities. There were members who participated across all of Norway, distributed across 207 local groups. An average of 11,515 hours of activities were registered during the four competition periods, distributed across the four activity categories. The local groups arranged various activities that members could participate in together.

Conclusions: The “Active Together” concept demonstrates that patient organizations can effectively promote physical activity and social engagement among people with RMDs. High participation and strong local involvement show that inclusive, team-based competitions can reduce barriers to physical activity and strengthen social belonging. By offering flexible activity options and emphasizing collective participation, the initiative highlights the potential of low-threshold, community-based interventions to support physical activity, mental well-being, and social participation in people with RMDs.

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[9] Act Belong Commit. (2008).. Curtin University: Australia.

Acknowledgments: NIL.

Disclosure of Interests: None declared.