Encouraging physical activity for people in jail

Promoting Recreation Time among Individuals Incarcerated in Jail

NIH-funded research Trustees of Indiana University · NIH-10987100

This study is looking to help people in rural county jails feel better by encouraging them to be more active during their recreation time, especially focusing on those who may be struggling with anxiety, high blood pressure, and sleep issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTrustees of Indiana University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Bloomington, United States)
Project IDNIH-10987100 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to improve the health and well-being of individuals incarcerated in rural county jails by promoting physical activity during designated recreation time. It focuses on addressing high rates of anxiety, hypertension, and poor sleep quality among these individuals, particularly those from racial and ethnic minority backgrounds. The study will develop and test a physical activity program designed to increase participation in recreation time and enhance the overall mental and physical health of participants. By utilizing Social Cognitive Theory, the research will assess changes in self-efficacy, perceived benefits of physical activity, and overall mental health outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals currently incarcerated in rural county jails, particularly those experiencing anxiety, hypertension, or poor sleep quality.

Not a fit: Patients who are not incarcerated or those who do not have access to recreation time in jail may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved mental and physical health outcomes for incarcerated individuals, reducing anxiety and hypertension.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that physical activity can significantly improve mental health outcomes, suggesting that this approach may be effective in the jail setting.

Where this research is happening

Bloomington, 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.
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.