NCT06338774 · University of Iowa
Cognitive Control to Boost Physical Activity Adherence
(BOOST)
What this study is about
This trial is designed to develop and test the effectiveness of cognitive training strategies to improve self-regulatory capacities for middle-aged adults to adopt and sustain a physically active lifestyle.
View original scientific description
This trial is designed to develop and test the efficacy of cognitive training strategies to improve self-regulatory capacities for middle-aged adults to adopt and sustain a physically active lifestyle.
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
- Between the ages of 40 and 65 years old
- Full-time working status of an average of 35 hrs./week or more
- Scoring as "Low Active" by the short form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ)
- Eligible to participate in an aerobic exercise intervention based on the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire
- Approval from their Primary Care Physician for approval to participate in the prescribed training program
- Corrected vision of 20/40
- Fluent in English to ensure instructions for cognitive assessments and training are understood clearly
Exclusion criteria
- Impairments in hearing inhibiting the ability to discuss study instructions or directions
- Visual impairments that prevent the perception of color, or loss of sight in the visual field
- Qualify as "high risk" for exercise-induced adverse events by American College of Sports Medicine criteria will be excluded, which includes known or symptomatic chronic cardiovascular or metabolic disease
- Not fluent in English
- Inability to comply with experimental instructions or access a tablet or computer to complete computerized training
- Previous diagnosis of a neurological or psychiatric condition, including diagnosis with any of the following: major depression, Attention Deficit Disorder or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, meningitis, Parkinson's disease, stroke, Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA), or brain aneurysm surgery.
- Previous diagnosis of a heart condition, cardiovascular disease, or a recent cardiovascular event (such as high blood pressure or cholesterol) that would increase the risk for an adverse event in response to vigorous exercise, Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), uncontrolled asthma (this includes anyone who has asthma but is not on medication.
- Previous diagnosis of a chronic condition such as cystic fibrosis, unregulated thyroid disorder (this includes anyone with thyroid disease that is not on medication), untreated diabetes, renal or liver disease, heart murmur, arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeat.
- Previous brain surgery or injury associated with concussion or loss of consciousness that required rehabilitation or caregiver assistance to regain function (i.e., dressing/personal hygiene)
- Previous diagnosis of Alzheimer\'s or related dementias
- Current or previous cancer treatments within the last 6 months
- Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
Where
- Iowa City, Iowa
- Boston, Massachusetts
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 Dec 11, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations