Training program to improve health for wheelchair users
Official title: Wheelchair user physical activity training intervention to enhance cardiometabolic health (WATCH): A community-based randomized control trial
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11031386 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a special training program to help people who use wheelchairs get active and improve their health by providing support and resources for exercise, like aerobic and strength training.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $572,455 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD111022-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11031386 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 21 and older who use wheelchairs and are at risk for obesity and cardiometabolic diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use wheelchairs or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a community-based physical activity training program specifically designed for individuals who use wheelchairs. It aims to address the barriers these individuals face in accessing physical activity, such as lack of facilities and adapted equipment. Participants will receive education and support to engage in aerobic and strength training, which are known to improve overall health. The study will evaluate the effectiveness of this intervention in enhancing cardiometabolic health and overall fitness among wheelchair users.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the health and quality of life for wheelchair users by promoting regular physical activity.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that community-based physical activity interventions can effectively improve health outcomes for wheelchair users, indicating a promising approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Morgan, Kerri Ann — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Morgan, Kerri Ann
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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.