Mindful Movement: guided imagery app to boost activity in adults with overweight or obesity
Official title: Mindful Movement: Development of A Novel Guided Imagery App to Promote Physical Activity in Adults with Overweight or Obesity
Funded at University of Tennessee Knoxville · NIH-11430590 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A researcher-led plan to create and test an easy-to-use guided imagery app that helps adults with overweight or obesity stay more physically active.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tennessee Knoxville NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Knoxville, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2026 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $217,115 |
| NIH project number | 1R03HL187201-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11430590 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults with overweight or obesity who are seeking a sustainable increase in physical activity and are interested in using digital tools and imagery-based support.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals who do not want to engage with group sessions, online platforms, or imagery-based support may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project aims to help adults with overweight or obesity become more physically active through a theory-based, person-centered program. It combines four in-person/group sessions, three personalized support sessions, a livestream fitness membership, and about 20 guided imagery sessions online. The guided imagery component will be refined based on participant feedback to ensure it is engaging and meaningful. The approach is grounded in Self-Determination Theory to foster intrinsic motivation and sustainable activity habits.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the app and program could make it easier for adults with overweight or obesity to start and maintain regular physical activity.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary feasibility data suggest these components can work together, but the guided imagery part needs refinement.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Tennessee Knoxville
Knoxville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ostendorf, Danielle M — University of Tennessee Knoxville
- Study coordinator: Ostendorf, Danielle 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.