Using social connections to encourage physical activity through digital support training
Using Existing Social Ties to Promote Physical Activity: Effects of Digitally Delivered Team Social Support Training
This study is looking at how teaming up with friends can help adults stay active for the long haul by using a fun app and activity tracker to set goals and get feedback together.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Carolina at Columbia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11049019 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how existing social ties can be leveraged to promote long-term physical activity among adults. Participants will form small teams and receive a digital intervention that includes a mobile app and activity tracker to help them set goals and receive feedback. The study aims to determine if this approach can lead to sustained increases in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity over time. By focusing on social support, the research seeks to create a more effective strategy for maintaining an active lifestyle.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are currently insufficiently active and looking to increase their physical activity levels.
Not a fit: Patients who are already highly active or those with severe mobility limitations may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could help individuals maintain a more active lifestyle, improving their overall health and reducing the risk of conditions like adult-onset diabetes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that social support can positively influence physical activity levels, suggesting that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
Columbia, United States
- University of South Carolina at Columbia — Columbia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Monroe, Courtney — University of South Carolina at Columbia
- Study coordinator: Monroe, Courtney
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.