A new mobile system to measure metabolism and fitness levels

A Novel, Low-Cost Mobile Metabolic Measurement (M3) System

NIH-funded research Barron Associates, INC. · NIH-11078330

This study is testing a new, affordable way to measure how your body uses oxygen during exercise, which can help improve your heart health while you're in cardiac rehab, making it easier for you to get personalized fitness advice outside of a hospital.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 2 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBarron Associates, INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Charlottesville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11078330 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research develops a low-cost mobile metabolic measurement system that uses indirect calorimetry to assess how well the body uses oxygen during aerobic activities. By measuring respiratory gases, the system provides insights into cardiorespiratory fitness, which is crucial for patients undergoing cardiac rehabilitation. Participants will engage in aerobic exercises while their oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production are monitored, allowing for personalized fitness assessments and training recommendations. The goal is to make these measurements accessible outside of traditional clinical settings, enhancing patient care.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults over 21 years old who are undergoing cardiac rehabilitation or have conditions affecting their aerobic fitness.

Not a fit: Patients who are not engaged in aerobic activities or do not have conditions related to cardiorespiratory fitness may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide patients with a convenient way to monitor their metabolic health and improve their exercise regimens.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that indirect calorimetry is effective in assessing cardiorespiratory fitness, indicating that this approach has a solid foundation in existing medical practices.

Where this research is happening

Charlottesville, 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 atherosclerotic coronary disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.