Comparing two types of online weight loss programs

A Non-Inferiority Trial Comparing Synchronous and Asynchronous Remotely Delivered Lifestyle Interventions

NA · University of Connecticut · NCT06393725

This study is testing which type of online weight loss program—one that you do on your own or one with weekly video meetings—helps people lose weight better and feel more connected over a year.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment328 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Connecticut (other)
Locations1 site (Storrs, Connecticut)
Trial IDNCT06393725 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a group-based digital weight loss program delivered either asynchronously through an online platform or synchronously via weekly videoconference meetings. Participants will engage in a year-long program to determine if weight loss outcomes, engagement levels, and feelings of connection differ between the two delivery methods. The study will also assess the cost-effectiveness of each approach in terms of weight lost per dollar spent. By comparing these two methods, the trial seeks to identify which format may be more beneficial for participants in achieving their weight loss goals.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults with a BMI between 27 and 45 who are active on Facebook and have access to the necessary technology.

Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant, have certain mental health conditions, or have recently lost significant weight may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a more accessible and effective weight loss intervention for individuals struggling with obesity.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that remotely delivered lifestyle interventions can be effective, suggesting that this approach may yield similar or improved outcomes.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* BMI 27-45
* has Bluetooth or wifi connectivity at home (for scale)
* goes on Facebook at least 5 days per week over the past 2 weeks
* has posted/replied at least once a week in the past 2 weeks (per self-report)
* has a smart phone

Exclusion Criteria:

* Pregnant or lactating or plans to during study period
* bipolar disorder, substance abuse, psychosis, bulimia, binge eating disorder, or severe depression
* had bariatric surgery or plans to during the study
* currently taking meds affecting weight
* lost ≥5% of weight in past 6 months
* participating in another weight loss program or plans to during the study
* chronic pain or medical condition that interferes with the ability to exercise
* type 1 diabetes
* unable to walk ¼ mile unaided without stopping
* nicotine user

Where this trial is running

Storrs, Connecticut

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Obesity

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.