A new approach to encourage physical activity after heart attacks

A novel psychological-behavioral intervention to promote physical activity after acute coronary syndrome

NIH-funded research Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10873805

This study is looking at how a friendly phone program can help heart patients feel better and get moving more after a heart event, making it easier for them to set and reach their personal activity goals.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMassachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10873805 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a combined approach using motivational interviewing and positive psychology to help patients increase their physical activity after experiencing an acute coronary syndrome (ACS). It recognizes that many patients struggle to engage in adequate physical activity post-ACS, despite its benefits for recovery. By utilizing telephone-delivered motivational interviewing and positive psychology techniques, the study aims to enhance patients' psychological well-being and set personalized activity goals, ultimately promoting a more active lifestyle. The intervention is designed to be accessible and supportive for patients recovering from heart-related issues.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have recently experienced an acute coronary syndrome and are looking to improve their physical activity levels.

Not a fit: Patients who are not recovering from an acute coronary syndrome or those who are unable to engage in physical activity due to other medical conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve recovery outcomes and quality of life for patients after a heart attack by increasing their physical activity levels.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that motivational interviewing and positive psychology interventions can effectively increase physical activity in patients with medical conditions, suggesting a promising avenue for this combined approach.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Anxiety Disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.