NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Pilot Partnership-Based Physical Activity Program for Midlife Women at Risk for Heart Disease

Official title: Pilot Trial of Physical Activity Partnerships for Women in Midlife with Elevated Risk for Cardiovascular Disease

Funded at Rowan University · NIH-11438226 · Data updated 2026-11-12

A small, early-stage study tests whether pairing midlife women (40–65) with PA partners helps them start and stick with regular physical activity to reduce heart disease risk.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRowan University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Glassboro, United States)
Project startSeptember 1, 2026
Project endJune 30, 2029
Funding year2026
Award (this year)$271,250
NIH project number1R34HL189015-01
Project IDNIH-11438226 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Women aged 40–65 with elevated cardiovascular risk factors (e.g., hypertension, obesity) who are willing to participate in a partnered or coached PA program.

Less likely to help

Women without access to partner-based programs or those unwilling to engage in regular activity coaching may not benefit.

What this research studies

This project focuses on women aged 40–65 who have higher risk factors for cardiovascular disease. It explores forming PA partnerships to support regular exercise, along with individual coaching and a possible partner-based coaching arm. The study will test recruitment, randomization, retention, partner matching, and handling disengagement to refine a scalable approach before a larger efficacy trial. The goal is to determine if partner-supported physical activity can improve adherence and reduce cardiovascular risk in midlife women.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, participants may achieve more consistent physical activity and potentially lower heart disease risk.

How similar studies have gone: Preliminary data suggest partner-based PA approaches are feasible and acceptable, with potential positive effects on activity levels.

Where this research is happening

  • Rowan University
    Glassboro, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Arigo, Danielle — Rowan University
  • Study coordinator: Arigo, Danielle

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.