Table 3 The key evaluation learnings to improve the implementation of the HeLP-her Rural program

• Simple low cost participant recruitment strategies were effective in recruiting rural women into a healthy lifestyle program (i.e. the distribution of flyers to women provided through primary schools, pre-schools and health services, media releases and researcher presence in each community). Multiple pathways and repeating recruitment methods may capture those women who are contemplating joining programs.

• High program satisfaction was achieved through combining face-to-face and remote delivery modes.

• Good uptake of phone coaching was achieved within the HeLP-her Rural program through providing flexible session times, scheduling phone coaching time in advance.

• Phone coaching uptake could be improved by research staff clearly explaining to participants the aim and personal benefit of phone coaching at program commencement. Additionally, there is a need to address participants concerns and a need to set realistic outcome expectations prior to phone coaching.

• Program manual use varied greatly with many reasons reported including: lack of time and motivation, forgetfulness, poor literacy levels and personal preferences for more interactive modes of receiving health information. Alternatives to the paper based program manual such as electronic versions or social media forums should be considered where participants might choose the resource that is most relevant to them.