An interactive fitness programme has been awarded a $2.3million grant to study how it can improve the health of older adults with prediabetes.
Vivo, an interactive fitness programme for adults aged 55 and over, has been awarded $2.3million from the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
The grant will be used to study how its science-based training strategy can improve muscle strength, blood sugar levels and adherence to a fitness programme among older adults with prediabetes.
The award was granted under the NIH’s Fast-Track Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) Program through the National Institute on Aging.
The study is being conducted by Vivo and academic research partner Duke University.
It will measure how effectively 90 participants with prediabetes increase strength, lower average glucose levels and establish a regular fitness regimen through the Vivo concept.
This includes live-only online small-group classes; real-time interactive support from trainers experienced in chronic conditions among people 55+; and ongoing live one-on-one assessments that scientifically evaluate progress.
Kathryn Nicole Porter Starr, Ph.D., RDN, LDN, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine. Dr. Porter Starr is co-primary investigator of the study.
She commented: “Science-based exercise, along with the engagement and support to sustain commitment, are important elements for success in managing prediabetes. Many fitness facilities are not viable and existing digital health solutions don’t inspire accountable habits, so finding good options is important for our patients.”
Eric Levitan, founder and CEO, said: “We developed Vivo with the understanding that many potential members would be managing chronic conditions that come with growing older.
“This grant enables us to demonstrate that Vivo is a clinical intervention for people 55+ to improve outcomes for chronic disease management, overall strength and quality of life.”
