Training program to improve health for wheelchair users

Wheelchair User Physical Activity Training Intervention to Enhance Cardiometabolic Health (WATCH): A Community-based Randomized Control Trial

Not applicable Interventional Washington University School of Medicine · NCT06013046

This study is testing a new training program to help wheelchair users improve their health by being more active and seeing if it works better than just providing education and support.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment108 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorWashington University School of Medicine Academic / other
Locations1 site (St Louis, Missouri)
Trial IDNCT06013046 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to enhance cardiometabolic health outcomes for wheelchair users by implementing a community-based, intensity-controlled physical activity training intervention. It compares the effectiveness of this training program to an education and access group, focusing on improving physical activity levels and identifying barriers to participation. The study will also explore various factors that may influence engagement in physical activity among wheelchair users, such as age, race, and motivation. By tailoring interventions to this population, the research seeks to provide insights into effective strategies for promoting physical activity and preventing health-related diseases.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older who use a wheelchair due to a physical disability and engage in limited physical activity.

Not a fit: Patients who are medically unstable, have recent cardiovascular complications, or are currently pregnant may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve the cardiometabolic health of wheelchair users, reducing their risk of obesity and related diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in community-based interventions for improving health outcomes in disabled populations, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 18 years or older
* Has a physical disability requiring the use of a wheelchair (includes manual wheelchairs, motorized wheelchairs, motor-assisted wheelchairs, and electric scooters)
* Ability to attend weekly exercise sessions in person
* Ability to independently move one or both upper extremities
* Has participated in no more than 60 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week in the past month
* English-speaking
* Able to provide informed consent
* Ability to complete a valid V02max score with 2 attempts

Exclusion Criteria:

* Determination by their physician to be medically unstable
* Has had cardiovascular complications within the past year or unstable heart disease
* Currently receiving medical treatment for an acute injury
* Presence of a stage IV pressure injury
* Currently pregnant or suspect pregnancy

Where this trial is running

St Louis, Missouri

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 DisabilityOccupational TherapyExercise
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.