Exploring how emotions affect physical activity habits

Using real-time data capture to examine affective mechanisms as mediators of physical activity adherence in interventions

NIH-funded research University of Southern California · NIH-10891516

This study is looking at how our feelings about exercise can help or hinder our ability to stay active, and it's designed for adults who find it tough to keep up with physical activity because of negative emotions; by improving those feelings, we hope to make it easier for you to stick with your exercise routine.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Southern California NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10891516 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how emotional experiences influence people's ability to stick with physical activity programs. By using real-time data capture methods, the study aims to understand the feelings associated with exercise and how these feelings can be modified to encourage more consistent physical activity. Participants will engage in interventions designed to enhance positive emotions related to exercise, potentially leading to better adherence to physical activity guidelines. The research focuses on adults, particularly those who may struggle with maintaining an active lifestyle due to negative emotional responses.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are currently inactive or struggle with maintaining a regular physical activity routine.

Not a fit: Patients who are already highly active or do not experience negative emotions related to physical activity may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could help develop more effective physical activity programs that are tailored to individuals' emotional experiences, leading to improved health outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of manipulating affective mechanisms in physical activity is relatively novel, previous research has shown that emotional responses can significantly impact behavior change in other health-related areas.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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 2026-06-09 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.