Examining how family habits can improve children's physical activity

Promoting Habit Formation in Family Physical Activity

Not applicable Interventional University of Victoria · NCT03145688

This study tests whether changing family habits can help kids be more active and healthier compared to just teaching them about exercise.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment240 (estimated)
Ages6 Years to 12 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Victoria Academic / other
Locations1 site (Victoria, British Columbia)
Trial IDNCT03145688 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the impact of habit formation in parents on increasing moderate to vigorous physical activity in their children over a six-month period. It compares a habit formation approach to standard education and planning methods to determine which is more effective in promoting physical activity. The study also explores the effects on child health-related quality of life and fitness outcomes, as well as potential mediating factors such as parental support habits. Additionally, it examines differences in outcomes based on intergenerational, seasonal, or gender factors.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are parents with children aged 6 to 12 who report low family physical activity and whose children do not meet physical activity guidelines.

Not a fit: Patients who are deemed unsafe to participate in physical activity based on the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved physical activity levels and health outcomes for children.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using habit formation techniques to improve physical activity, suggesting this approach may be effective.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* parents with children between the ages of 6 and 12 years
* self-report low family physical activity
* target child is not meeting Canada's Physical Activity guidelines

Exclusion Criteria:

• participant is unsafe to participate in physical activity as determined by answers to the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q)

Where this trial is running

Victoria, British Columbia

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.
Conditions Physical ActivityBehaviouralFamily physical activity habit
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.