Using personalized text messages to help young adults become more active

Efficacy of Precision Text Messaging to Increase Physical Activity in Insufficiently-Active Young Adults

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11127083

This study is all about helping young adults who don't get enough exercise by sending them personalized text messages that encourage them to be more active, using their own activity data and things like the weather to make it more effective.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-11127083 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to increase physical activity among young adults who are currently insufficiently active by utilizing personalized text messaging interventions. By leveraging mobile and wearable technologies, the study will deliver tailored messages based on individual data and environmental factors, such as weather conditions, to encourage more movement and less sedentary behavior. The approach involves developing computational models that optimize the timing and content of these messages to maximize their effectiveness in promoting physical activity. Participants will wear activity trackers to monitor their progress and receive feedback through text messages designed to motivate them.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are young adults aged 21 and under who are currently not meeting recommended physical activity levels.

Not a fit: Patients who are already highly active or those with specific medical conditions that limit physical activity may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cardiovascular health and weight management for young adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using mobile technology for health interventions, indicating that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.