Exploring how leisure activities can help reduce the risk of heart disease
Official title: Leisure as a Protective Factors against Everyday Risk for Cardiovascular Disease
Funded at University of California, Merced · NIH-10360041 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how different fun activities can help reduce stress, depression, and sitting too much, and it’s for anyone interested in finding out which hobbies might improve heart health and overall well-being.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, Merced NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Merced, United States) |
| Project start | February 15, 2022 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $442,983 |
| NIH project number | 1R15HL161681-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10360041 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk for cardiovascular disease who are looking for non-drug interventions to improve their heart health.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with existing severe cardiovascular conditions or those unable to engage in leisure activities may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between leisure activities and cardiovascular disease risk factors such as stress, depression, and sedentary behavior. It aims to identify which types of leisure activities are most beneficial and how the way these activities are performed can influence their effectiveness. By focusing on dimensions like enjoyment, social connections, and coping mechanisms, the study seeks to develop non-pharmacological interventions that encourage healthier lifestyles. Participants may engage in various leisure activities and provide insights into their experiences to help shape effective behavioral strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, enjoyable ways for patients to lower their risk of cardiovascular disease through leisure activities.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that lifestyle interventions, including leisure activities, can positively impact cardiovascular health, suggesting potential success for this innovative approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, Merced
Merced, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zawadzki, Matthew Jason — University of California, Merced
- Study coordinator: Zawadzki, Matthew Jason
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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.