Promoting physical activity in inactive women through peer support

A Peer-Based Approach to Enhance Physical Activity in Dyads of Inactive Women

Not applicable Interventional M.D. Anderson Cancer Center · NCT05053113

This study tests if pairing inactive women with a buddy and a health coach can help them get more active compared to going solo with a regular program.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment500 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexFemale
SponsorM.D. Anderson Cancer Center Academic / other
Locations1 site (Houston, Texas)
Trial IDNCT05053113 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial evaluates a peer-based intervention aimed at increasing moderate-intensity physical activity among inactive women. Participants will be paired with a partner and receive support from a health coach through phone calls and activity monitoring using FitBits. The study compares the effectiveness of this dyadic approach to an individual behavioral intervention, focusing on social support and motivation. Outcomes will include physical activity levels, strength, blood pressure, and other health metrics.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are women aged 18-65 who are physically inactive and can enroll with a partner.

Not a fit: Patients who are currently pregnant or actively participating in other physical activity programs may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly enhance physical activity levels and overall health in inactive women, potentially reducing obesity-related health risks.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that peer support can effectively promote physical activity, making this approach promising yet still innovative.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Self-identify as female
* Age 18-65 years
* Speak English or Spanish
* Physically able to engage in low-to-moderate PA as assessed by the PA Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q), or with medical clearance
* Insufficient self-reported moderate-to-vigorous PA (\< 150 minutes/week)
* Able to enroll with one eligible adult female partner
* Valid home address in the greater Houston area
* Have a functioning smartphone and able and willing to send and receive text messages
* Willing to use the Fitbit app and device
* Blood pressure reading \< 160/100 mm Hg, or with medical clearance

Exclusion Criteria:

* Pregnancy or considering pregnancy during the study period, self-reported
* Currently participating in a program or research study to promote physical activity or weight loss
* Plans to move outside the greater Houston area during the study period

Where this trial is running

Houston, Texas

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 Obesity-Related Malignant Neoplasm
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.