NCT07849439 · St. Louis University
Two-Week Stair-Climbing Exercise Snacks and Metabolic Health in Adults With Overweight or Obesity: A Pilot Study
What this study is about
This pilot study will evaluate whether brief bouts of stair climbing performed throughout the day for two weeks can improve metabolic health, cardiovascular fitness, and other health-related outcomes in adults with overweight or obesity who do not regularly exercise.
View original scientific description
This pilot study will evaluate whether brief bouts of stair climbing performed throughout the day for two weeks can improve metabolic health, cardiovascular fitness, and other health-related outcomes in adults with overweight or obesity who do not regularly exercise. Participants will complete approximately 6-8 brief stair-climbing "exercise snacks" per day for 14 days, with each bout consisting of approximately 60 total stair steps performed at a challenging but safe self-selected pace. Participants will complete baseline and post-intervention assessments at Saint Louis University. These assessments will include continuous glucose monitoring and standardized meal testing to evaluate glucose responses, as well as measures of aerobic fitness, anaerobic power, body composition, waist circumference, and muscular strength. The study will also evaluate adherence, perceived exercise intensity, and the feasibility of incorporating brief stair-climbing bouts into daily life.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Stair-Climbing Exercise Snacks
Participants will perform brief stair-climbing exercise snacks 6-8 times per day for 14 days. Each bout will consist of approximately 60 total stair steps completed at a self-selected challenging but safe pace. When possible, participants will complete approximately 60 upward steps. If 60 continuous upward steps are not available, participants may use one or more flights repeatedly by ascending and descending carefully until approximately 60 total steps are completed. The intervention will be completed independently in participants' usual daily environments, such as home, work, or campus. Participants will be instructed to use the handrail when needed, descend slowly and carefully, and not run down the stairs.
Primary outcome measures
Change in 2-Hour Postprandial Glucose Area Under the Curve (AUC)
Time frame: Baseline (Day 1) and post-intervention (Day 15)
Postprandial glucose response will be assessed using continuous glucose monitoring during a standardized meal challenge performed before and after the two-week stair-climbing intervention. Glucose area under the curve (AUC) over the approximately 2-hour post-meal period will be calculated using the trapezoidal method and compared between pre- and post-intervention assessments.
Change in CGM-Derived Glucose Standard Deviation
Time frame: Early intervention (Days 2-4) and late intervention (Days 11-13)
Glucose standard deviation will be calculated from continuous glucose monitoring data over three complete 24-hour periods during the early and late intervention periods and compared within participants.
Change in Aerobic Capacity (VO₂max or Estimated VO₂max)
Time frame: Baseline (Day 0) and post-intervention (Day 15)
Aerobic capacity will be assessed using a VO₂max or estimated VO₂max test with metabolic cart analysis/indirect calorimetry during a graded exercise test. Peak oxygen uptake will be expressed in mL/kg/min and compared between baseline and post-intervention assessments. If a maximal test is not appropriate or feasible, a submaximal test with VO₂ extrapolation may be used.
Change in CGM-Derived Glucose Coefficient of Variation
Time frame: Early intervention (Days 2-4) and late intervention (Days 11-13)
Glucose coefficient of variation will be calculated from continuous glucose monitoring data over three complete 24-hour periods during the early and late intervention periods and compared within participants.
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
- Age 18-35 years and able to provide informed consent.
- Body mass index (BMI) 25.0-34.99 kg/m² and otherwise healthy, without chronic disease.
- Sedentary or low-active lifestyle, defined as no regular structured exercise ≥3 days/week for ≥30 minutes per session during the past 3 months.
- Access to a safe staircase that permits completion of approximately 60 total stair steps per exercise bout. Approximately 60 upward steps are preferred when available; one or more flights may be used repeatedly if needed.
- No contraindications or increased-risk findings identified on the PAR-Q+ or health history screening.
Exclusion criteria
- Known cardiovascular, pulmonary, metabolic, renal, neurological, or musculoskeletal disease, or signs or symptoms suggesting increased risk during vigorous exercise, including diagnosed diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, uncontrolled hypertension, chronic pulmonary disease, kidney disease, fainting or unexplained dizziness during exercise, chest pain with exertion, or severe shortness of breath with mild-to-moderate activity.
- Current use of medications that may affect exercise tolerance, heart-rate response, balance, glucose metabolism, or safety during vigorous exercise, including insulin or other glucose-lowering medications, beta-blockers, anti-arrhythmic medications, systemic corticosteroids, or medications that may cause dizziness, impaired balance, or altered exercise response.
- Orthopedic or joint conditions that could be aggravated by repeated stair climbing.
- Allergy, intolerance, dietary restriction, or other condition preventing safe consumption of the standardized meal replacement shake.
- Pregnancy or plans to become pregnant during the study period.
- Any other medical or psychological condition that, in the investigator's judgment, could make adherence difficult or place the participant at risk.
- Individuals currently enrolled in a course taught by the PI or other study personnel, or who are directly supervised, graded, or formally evaluated by a member of the study team.
Where
- St Louis, Missouri
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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 Sep 30, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations