Effects of a 12-week exercise program on the gut microbiome in older adults

The Effects of a 12-week Combined Exercise Intervention on the Gut Microbiome of Older Adults

NA · Nottingham Trent University · NCT06153719

This study tests if a 12-week exercise program can improve gut health in older adults who don't usually exercise.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment80 (estimated)
Ages65 Years to 85 Years
SexAll
SponsorNottingham Trent University (other)
Locations1 site (Nottingham)
Trial IDNCT06153719 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates how a 12-week combined exercise intervention can influence the gut microbiome of older adults aged 65-85 who are physically inactive. The research aims to understand the relationship between exercise and gut health, particularly how physical activity can improve the diversity and composition of gut microbes, which may decline with age. Participants will engage in a structured exercise program while their gut microbiome will be monitored to assess changes over the intervention period. The study seeks to provide insights into how lifestyle modifications can enhance health and wellbeing in older populations.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are healthy, physically inactive older adults aged 65-85 with a BMI between 20-35 kg/m2.

Not a fit: Patients with significant gastrointestinal diseases, cancer, or those on certain medications may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could improve gut health and overall wellbeing in older adults, potentially reducing their susceptibility to various diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results in improving gut microbiome health through exercise, suggesting this approach may be effective.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Aged between 65-85 years old
* Healthy, free-living individuals
* Vaccinated against COVID-19
* Physically inactive (\<150 mins/week of PA)
* No participation in any exercise intervention studies in the last 3 months
* BMI Between 20-35 kg/m2

Exclusion Criteria:

* The use of antibiotics 3 months before or during the study
* Cancer
* Intestinal inflammatory conditions (e.g., Crohns, ulcerative colitis)
* Consumption of proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole, lansoprazole, etc...)
* Auto-immune diseases
* GI diseases (e.g., IBS, peptic ulcers)
* Routine consumption of pre and/or probiotic foods or supplements
* On blood thinners

Where this trial is running

Nottingham

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: Physical Inactivity, Gut microbiome, Exercise, Physical activity, Physical inactivity, Older adults, Gut microbiota

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.