Digital mindset training to improve half marathon performance
Official title: The Efficacy of a Digital Mindset Intervention to Improve Race Performance, Training Outcomes, and Recovery in Recreational Half Marathon Runners: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Run by University of Auckland, New Zealand · NCT06972121 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing whether a short online training program can help recreational runners in New Zealand improve their half marathon performance by changing how they think about fatigue and soreness during their training.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 207 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Auckland, New Zealand Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Auckland) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 15, 2025 |
| Main results expected | September 2025 |
| Study ends | September 2025 |
| Registry record updated | May 28, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06972121 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are healthy adults aged 18 or older who are registered to run their first, second, or third half marathon in New Zealand in 2025.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who have completed more than two half marathons or are currently injured may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This randomized controlled trial evaluates the effectiveness of a brief digital mindset intervention aimed at enhancing performance among recreational runners training for a half marathon in New Zealand. The intervention focuses on reframing physical symptoms like fatigue and soreness as positive indicators of progress, thereby potentially improving motivation and training outcomes. Participants will be divided into groups receiving either the mindset training, standard training advice, or no content, allowing researchers to assess the impact of mindset on race completion and performance. The digital modules will be delivered over nine weeks leading up to the event, ensuring accessibility and engagement.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could help runners improve their performance and training outcomes by fostering a more positive mindset towards physical exertion.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of digital mindset training is novel, similar psychological interventions in sports have shown promising results in enhancing performance.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Be aged 18 years or older * Be registered to run (not walk) in a 2025 half marathon in New Zealand * Be running their 1st, 2nd, or 3rd half marathon * Be able to complete the half-marathon without physical assistance or aids * Be able to read and understand English * Have regular access to email or an internet-connected device Exclusion Criteria: * Have completed more than 2 half marathons in the past * Are currently injured or unable to complete the race unassisted * Are unable to complete online questionnaires independently * Do not have access to a device capable of receiving digital content via app or email
Where it's running
-
Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland
Auckland, New Zealand Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Keith Petrie, Professor — University of Auckland, New Zealand
- Study coordinator: Michelle Taylorson, Health Psychology Masters Stud
- Email: mtay322@aucklanduni.ac.nz
- Phone: +64 21 230 8053
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.