SMART Physical Activity Studies

SMART (Sequential Multiple Assignment Trial) studies randomize participants more than once during a study, depending on the decision points and the participant's response. These two studies are among the first to use the SMART design in large-scale physical activity trials. Both studies use different combinations of interventions to assess what is most effective. Both of these studies use different combinations of a physical activity wearable, text messaging, group interventions, and individualized interventions.

Testing adaptive interventions to improve physical activity for sedentary women (Working Women Walking)  (PI: Susan Buchholz)
Funded by: National Institute of Nursing Research of the National Institutes of Health

Evidence-Based intervention to improve walking  engagement in El Paso, Texas (50K4Life)  (PI: Jennifer Salinas, Co-I: Susan Buchholz)
​Funded by:  Evidence-Based intervention to improve walking  engagement in El Paso, Texas (50K4Life)  (PI: Jennifer Salinas, Co-I: Susan Buchholz)

CDC: About Physical Activity

Publications
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10061579/
https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10626491

In the Working Women Walking study, we found that text messages, personal calls, and group meetings did not increase physical activity. However, using Fitbit and goal setting (a constant) appeared to have some benefit for many of the women in improving physical activity.

In the 50K4Life Study, Pilot Study results are being analyzed, and Dr. Salinas and her team are getting ready to start the Full Study in the Fall of 2025.