Increasing physical activity in adults with intellectual disabilities
A Stage 1 Pilot Test for Feasibility and Efficacy of a Multi-Level Intervention To Increase Physical Activity in Adults with Intellectual Disability: Step it Up +
This study is testing a fun 16-week program called Step It Up+ to help adults with intellectual disabilities get more active through personalized workouts and support from coaches, making it easier for them to enjoy exercise and connect with others.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11013331 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to enhance physical activity levels among adults with intellectual disabilities, who often face barriers to engaging in healthy exercise. The program, called Step It Up+, is a 16-week intervention that combines self-management strategies with support from coaches to help participants increase their daily activity. It includes personalized aerobic and strength training activities, as well as a community fitness class to promote social engagement. The study will assess how feasible and acceptable this program is for participants, preparing for a larger efficacy trial in the future.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older with intellectual disabilities who are looking to increase their physical activity levels.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have intellectual disabilities or those who are unable to participate in physical activities may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved physical health and reduced risk of dementia for adults with intellectual disabilities.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that multi-level interventions can effectively increase physical activity in various populations, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Chapel Hill, United States
- Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill — Chapel Hill, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tomaszewski, Brianne — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Tomaszewski, Brianne
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 below.