Table 1 Inclusion and exclusion criteria

Males and females aged 18 years or over

Any spinal surgery in the past twelve months

LBP with/without radiation persisting for greater than 12 weeks.

Evidence of nerve root, spinal cord, or cauda equina compression, severe spinal stenosis indicated by signs of neurogenic claudication, Grade 3-4 spondylolisthesis, (Grade 1-2 spondylolisthesis eligible for inclusion) fibromyalgia or systemic/inflammatory disorder

Capable of participating in home based exercise as indicated by their GP [home based, walking intervention]

Any other current musculoskeletal injury or contraindication to increasing physical activity levels, including any cardio-respiratory or other medical condition limiting exercise tolerance

Fluency in English (verbal and written)

Any history of epilepsy

LBP caused by involvement in a road traffic accident in the last 12 months or ongoing litigation

History of serious Psychological or Psychiatric illness (mild depression eligible for inclusion)

Current Pregnancy

High activity levels categorised according to objective physical activity levels (7 day ActivPAL recording)