NCT06411769 · University of Texas, El Paso
Evidence-based Intervention to Improve Walking Engagement in El Paso, Texas
What this study is about
The investigators will test if the 50,000 for Life (50K4Life) is effective at improving walking engagement in school employees in 30 public schools by delivering a two-phased adaptive intervention to improve walking engagement in school workers in 30 public schools. In Phase 1, all study schools will be randomly assigned to a 50K4Life only, or 50K4Life + SMS Text Messaging group.
View original scientific description
The investigators will test if the 50,000 for Life (50K4Life) is effective at improving walking engagement in school employees in 30 public schools by delivering a two-phased adaptive intervention to improve walking engagement in school workers in 30 public schools. In Phase 1, all study schools will be randomly assigned to a 50K4Life only, or 50K4Life + SMS Text Messaging group. In Phase 2, non-responder schools will be randomly assigned to one of two 6-month adaptive treatments: a) an individual-level intervention that includes remote education modules (REM) and one-to-one monthly phone-based coaching, or, b) a school-level intervention that includes group educational sessions, school environmental modifications (floor distance markings, signage in corridors and breakrooms, promotional items), and work time/weekend group walks/hikes. The schools that 50% or more participants who achieve 50,000 steps in one week will continue with the Phase 1 condition. Intervention strategies will be coordinated by health educators and managed using the Pathverse app. Data collection will occur at baseline, 8 weeks (Phase 2 randomization decision point), 8 months (immediate post intervention), 12 months (4 months post-intervention), and 18 months (10 months post-intervention) for a total of 18 months of study participation.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
50K4LIfe
This intervention will consist of the Walking Challenge only.
BEHAVIORAL
SMS Text Messaging
In this intervention, participants will received notifications onto the Pathverse app
BEHAVIORAL
Individual
In this Phase 2 individual-level intervention, participants will receive remote education modules and one-to-one monthly phone-based coaching.
BEHAVIORAL
School
In this Phase 2 school-level intervention, participants will receive group educational sessions, school environmental modifications (floor distance markings, signage in corridors and breakrooms, promotional items), and participate in work time/weekend group walks/hikes.
Primary outcome measures
Daily Step Count
Time frame: Daily, Weekly up to 18 months.
The Pathverse app synced with an activity tracker will be used to collect daily step counts. The goal is for teams (schools) to have 50% of their staff with an average weekly steps \> 50,000.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- A school is eligible if it is located within one of the four target school districts
- adult 18 years or older
- full-time school-based school district employee
- not pregnant and able to walk without physical limitations or assistive device
- willing to wear our Fitbit tracking device or use their own tracking device for 18 months
- own a smartphone
- willingness to use a personal smartphone for tracking activity related to the Fitbit tracker, access online intervention content, and receive text messages.
Exclusion criteria
- Works at more than one school
- Does not work on a district school campus
- schools that previously participated in walking challenges
Where
- El Paso, Texas
Collaborators
National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD)
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Mar 16, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations