Creating a connected exercise system for wheelchair users
Official title: Development of a socially connected exercise system for wheelchair users
Funded at Veterans Health Administration · NIH-10974474 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is creating a fun and supportive exercise program for wheelchair users, especially veterans, to help them stay active at home with the help of smart devices and fitness apps.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Veterans Health Administration NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | November 1, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01RX004249-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10974474 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are wheelchair users, particularly veterans, who are looking to increase their physical activity and improve their health.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use wheelchairs or those who are unable to engage in any form of physical activity may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop an innovative exercise system specifically designed for wheelchair users, particularly veterans. It addresses the barriers they face in accessing physical activity, such as transportation, social support, and motivation. By utilizing smart connected devices and fitness apps, the project seeks to provide an engaging and supportive home-based exercise option that encourages regular aerobic activity. The system will incorporate features like interactive video instruction and social networking to enhance motivation and adherence to exercise routines.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the physical activity levels and cardiovascular health of wheelchair users.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success with similar approaches in enhancing physical activity through connected fitness technologies for able-bodied individuals, but this application for wheelchair users is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Veterans Health Administration
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Koontz, Alicia M. — Veterans Health Administration
- Study coordinator: Koontz, Alicia M.
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.