E-Bike Commuting for Obesity
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests whether commuting with an electric bicycle (e-bike) can improve health and fitness in college students who are overweight or obese. The study examines changes in fitness, body fat, blood health markers, activity levels, and mental well-being over 24 weeks. Participants will either commute using an e-bike or maintain their usual habits. The trial seeks students who are overweight, not very active, and willing to commute by e-bike. As an unphased trial, it offers a unique opportunity to explore innovative ways to enhance health and fitness.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
If you are using medications that affect glucose metabolism, heart rate, or physical activity, you may not be eligible to participate in this trial.
What prior data suggests that e-bike commuting is safe for overweight or obese college students?
Research has shown that using pedal-assist electric bicycles (e-bikes) for commuting can enhance overall health and well-being, particularly for individuals who are overweight or obese. Studies have found that riding e-bikes increases physical activity and improves fitness. However, some safety concerns exist. Recent data indicates that e-bike riders face a slightly higher risk of injury compared to regular bike riders. Injuries from e-bike accidents can also be more severe than those from traditional bike accidents. While e-bikes provide health benefits, following safety guidelines and wearing protective gear, such as helmets, is important to reduce risks.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Unlike traditional treatments for obesity that often rely on dietary changes, medication, or surgery, e-bike commuting offers a unique, active approach by integrating physical activity into daily routines. Researchers are excited about this treatment because it makes exercise more accessible and convenient, as the pedal-assist feature allows individuals to engage in physical activity without the intensity barrier that can deter regular cycling. Additionally, this method has the potential to improve cardiovascular health and increase daily energy expenditure, promoting weight loss and overall health in a sustainable way.
What evidence suggests that e-bike commuting is effective for obesity?
Research has shown that riding an e-bike to work can enhance both mental and physical health. People who rode e-bikes for longer distances often lost weight and had lower diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number in a blood pressure reading). In this trial, participants in the experimental group will use e-bikes for commuting, which can increase moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (exercise that makes you breathe harder) and reduce the time spent sitting or lying down. Studies have also found that e-bike exercise is as effective as regular cycling for weight loss in people who are overweight or obese. Overall, e-bikes could be a fun and effective way to improve fitness and health.12678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Gregory Ruegsegger, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Wisconsin, River Falls
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for overweight or obese college students who lead a sedentary lifestyle and may be at risk for conditions like obesity, cardiometabolic issues, or stroke. Participants should not currently be physically active or have any motor skill impairments.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants in the intervention group will use a pedal-assist e-bike for commuting at least four days per week for 12 weeks. Control group participants will maintain usual commuting habits.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in physical activity, fitness, and health outcomes post-intervention
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- E-Bike Commuting
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Wisconsin, River Falls
Lead Sponsor