Sex differences in how cold affects fat burning during exercise
Official title: Sex Differences in Cold-Induced Changes in Maximal Fat Oxidation: A Pilot Study
Run by Colorado State University · NCT07297823 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether cold exposure changes maximal fat oxidation during exercise differently for women and men.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 40 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Colorado State University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Fort Collins, Colorado) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | April 15, 2026 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2026 |
| Study ends | June 30, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | May 15, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07297823 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults 18–40 years old who exercise regularly and can safely perform maximal exercise testing.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals with certain medical conditions or those unable to communicate clearly during testing 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
Healthy adults aged 18–40 will perform maximal exercise tests in two environments: cold and room temperature. Researchers will compare how fat oxidation changes from room to cold between females and males. The study builds on existing knowledge that sex and cold exposure influence fat use during exercise. It is designed to see if the cold-induced shift in fat burning is similar or different by sex.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, findings could help tailor exercise and cold-exposure strategies to optimize fat metabolism.
How similar studies have gone: Prior research shows sex differences in fat metabolism during exercise, and that cold exposure increases fat oxidation, supporting potential observable effects here.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 18-40 years (inclusive) * Weight stable (no change in body mass greater than 5 lbs. within the previous 6 months. * Willing to abstain from caffeine and alcohol for 24-hours prior to two different study visits * Competency in English as informally assessed by comprehension of the Informed Consent. This study involves maximal exercise testing; for safety reasons, the ability for clear and rapid communication will be necessary between the research participants and the investigators. * Regular exercise (i.e., at least 150 minutes of moderate-vigorous exercise per week) Exclusion Criteria: * Use of hormonal contraceptives * History of autonomic, cardio-pulmonary, and/or metabolic disease (including heart failure, hypertension, arrhythmia, vascular disease, and/or diabetes) * Pregnancy or breast feeding * Habitual use of tobacco/nicotine products or recreational drugs (2 or more uses within the previous month)
Where it's running
-
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, Colorado, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Christopher Bell — Colorado State University
- Study coordinator: Christopher Bell
- Email: Christopher.Bell@colostate.edu
- Phone: 9704917522
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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.