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Targeting Physical Health in Schizophrenia: Physical Activity Can Enhance Life Randomized Control Trial

Targeting Physical Health in Schizophrenia: Physical Activity Can Enhance Life Randomized Control Trial

Status
Completed
Phases
NA
Study type
Interventional
Source
ClinicalTrials.gov
Registry ID
NCT04173572
Acronym
(PACE-life
Enrollment
50
Registered
2019-11-22
Start date
2019-12-20
Completion date
2022-03-23
Last updated
2022-09-22

For informational purposes only — not medical advice. Sourced from public registries and may not reflect the latest updates. Terms

Conditions

Brief Psychotic Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizophreniform Disorders, Unspecified Schizophrenia Spectrum and Other Psychotic Disorder

Keywords

Walking, Exercise, Physical Health

Brief summary

Purpose: To test the effectiveness of an exercise intervention that combines group walking, activity tracking, and heart rate monitoring (i.e. Physical Activity can Enhance Life, PACE-Life) on the physical and mental health for individuals with schizophrenia spectrum disorder. Participants: 50 individuals with schizophrenia spectrum disorders. Procedures (methods): During the baseline assessment, which can be completed virtually and in-person (based on participant preference) all participants will be provided with a Fitbit wristband and instructed how to use it. During the first group session, participants will be taught how to use their heart rate (on the Fitbit) to determine how fast participants should walk (to achieve the appropriate exercise dosage). Information on proper care, usage, and how to determine the appropriate heart rate from the watch, to guide the intensity of the walk, will be provided to participants and reviewed at each group session. Participants randomly assigned to the PACE Life virtual walking group sessions will meet the other group members and group leaders and be reminded of the heart rate (HR) that corresponds with the intensity of that group session. Next, the group will exercise for 15 minutes in the first two weeks, progressing to 30-minute walking sessions over the course of the intervention. At the completion of the sessions, everyone will take a break for water and review the walk. After the second group session of each week, participants will receive weekly progress reports of their steps and minutes spent walking the prior week (obtained from Fitbit devices). During this session, participants will also set individual goals for the upcoming week for both their intensity walks and total steps per day. Participants randomly assigned to Fitbit Alone will be given a Fitbit and shown how to use it by study staff. Participants will also be given information on current recommended physical activity guidelines (150 min/week of moderate intensity exercise) and will be told that study staff may be contacting them on a weekly basis (or shorter, if necessary) if it looks like participants are not wearing their Fitbit for a certain number of days (e.g. 3 consecutive days) or to troubleshoot any issues. If necessary, participants might be invited to meet with research staff to get assistance on any Fitibit or exercise-related issues.

Detailed description

Overview of Procedures: The PACE-Life Group will be integrated into the Schizophrenia Treatment and Evaluation Program (STEP) outpatient clinics in Raleigh, NC and Carrboro, NC. The group walks will occur on a secure online platform (Zoom). Goal-setting groups and all assessments will also take place on a secure online platform (Zoom). Goal-setting will include setting goals for the upcoming week in terms of number of steps as well as how many intensity walks individuals plan to complete. Clinic-based group sessions will also include if-then plans and problem solving any issues that interfere with home-based walks. The Fitbit Alone participants will be given a Fitbit and instructed on how to use them as well as information on current recommended physical activity guidelines. Participants will be told that study staff may be contacting them on a weekly basis (or shorter, if necessary) if it looks like they are not wearing their Fitbit for a certain number of days or to troubleshoot any issues. If necessary participants may be invited to meet with research staff to receive assistance on any Fitbit or exercise-related issues. Assessments/Measures: The exercise intervention, PACE-Life, will last for 16 weeks and includes both virtual group walks and independent walks. Participants will be asked to complete assessments (either virtually or in-person based on preference) at screening, baseline, mid-point, post-test, and 1-month follow-up. At Screening the following measures will be examined: Demographics, the Wide Range Achievement Test (WRAT), a licensed physician will complete a medical history and physical exam to provide medical clearance for participants, Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q) and the -the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI) will be used to verify that participants have a schizophrenia spectrum diagnosis before they are enrolled in the study. At the Baseline, Mid-point, Post-test, and 1-Month Follow-up the following measures will be examined: Demographics, Minutes Spent Walking, the Short Form International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), Steps/day, Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF)- CRF will be measured using the 6-minute walk test (6MWT), if in person, or compute CRF based on an equation by Jackson, A.S., et al (1990) that includes recent weight and height, for the calculation of BMI, gender, self-reported physical activity level, and age, Self-determination Basic Needs, the Basic Psychological Need Scale-in General, the Basic Psychological Needs in Exercise Scale (BPNES), the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), Resting Systolic/Diastolic Blood Pressure and resting heart rate (RHR), autonomous motivation will be measured with the Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire-2 (BREQ-2), enjoyment of walking will be measured with the Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale (PACES), the UCLA Loneliness Scale, Weight, BMI, and Waist/hip Circumference. At the conclusion of the open trial, the investigators will administer a brief questionnaire to the participants regarding satisfaction and acceptability that will include both Likert ratings and open-ended questions. Intervention- PACE-Life Groups will occur twice per week for 15 minutes in the first two weeks, progressing to 30-minute walking sessions over the course of the intervention without changes in frequency. The intensity of virtual walks will increase throughout the intervention in a stepwise fashion to create an exercise dose response to maximize impact on CRF. Fitbits: All participants will be provided a Fitbit that is labeled with a participant number. All Fitbits are paired to a Fitbit account. Data from Fitbit devices can be synced to the corresponding account and accessed through Fitbit.com. Participants will be provided information about their accounts should participants want to look at the data but will be asked not to change any of the settings as the investigators will be using data for tracking steps/day and minutes spent walking. Protocol Changes due to COVID-19 Pandemic: Protocol changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic have been formalized and made permanent as outlined above. Additionally, walking groups will take place virtually, on a secure online platform (Zoom). The Wide Range Achievement Test (WRAT) will be used instead of the Wechsler Abbreviated Scale of Intelligence (WASI) to measure a minimum reading level (4th grade) to participate in the study.

Interventions

BEHAVIORALPACE-Life

PACE-Life Groups will occur twice per week for 15 minutes in the first two weeks, progressing to 30-minute walking sessions over the course of the intervention without changes in frequency. The intensity of virtual walks will increase throughout this intervention in a stepwise fashion to create an exercise dose response to maximize impact on CRF.

BEHAVIORALExercise Intervention

Data from Fitbit devices will be synced and accessed through Fitbit.com. Participants will be provided account information to view data but will be asked not to change any of the settings as the investigators will be using data for tracking steps/day and minutes spent walking.

Sponsors

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
CollaboratorNIH
University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
Lead SponsorOTHER

Study design

Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Intervention model
PARALLEL
Primary purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
TRIPLE (Caregiver, Investigator, Outcomes Assessor)

Eligibility

Sex/Gender
ALL
Age
18 Years to 65 Years
Healthy volunteers
No

Inclusion criteria

* DSM-V diagnosis of a SSD (Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Brief Psychotic Disorder, Schizophreniform Disorder, and Unspecified Schizophrenia Spectrum and Other Psychotic Disorder) * Between the ages of 18-65, both genders, and any ancestry * Reading level \> 4th grade. Reading level will be measured by WRAT. * No hospitalizations for psychiatric reasons in the last 3 months * Clinically stable (no psychiatric medication changes within the past month) * Are not already engaging in consistent moderate-intensity exercise (cutoff = 60 min/week for the past 6 months) * Present with no contra-indication to engage in regular moderate intensity exercise based on the American College of Sports Medicine guidelines * Willing and able to provide informed consent or has legal guardian present to provide informed consent.

Exclusion criteria

* Pregnant women will be excluded because pregnancy alters autonomic and immune responsiveness, increase weight gain, and can influence heart rate

Design outcomes

Primary

MeasureTime frameDescription
Difference in Participant's Total Distance During 6-minute WalkBaseline and the last study visit (Up to 20 weeks)The 6-minute walk test (6MWT) will be used to measure cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) during which individuals will be asked to walk continuously for six minutes on a flat, indoor surface around cones (separated by 100ft). The possible distance range is 400 meters to 650 meters. Higher scores reflect better outcomes (greater physical fitness).

Secondary

MeasureTime frameDescription
Mean Difference Overall UCLA Loneliness Scale ScoreBaseline and the last study visit (Up to 20 weeks)Mean difference in overall score from baseline to last study visit (up to 20 weeks). The UCLA Loneliness scale is a 20 item scale. Answers are on a 4 point scale with options I often feel this way, I sometimes feel this way, I rarely feel this way, and I never feel this way. Possible scores range from 20 to 80. Higher scores reflect worse outcomes (greater feelings of loneliness).
Mean Difference in Body Mass Index (BMI) ChangeBaseline and the last study visit (Up to 20 weeks)Mean difference in BMI from baseline to last study visit (up to 20 weeks). Expected normal BMI ranges from 14 to 54. Higher scores reflect worse outcomes (i.e., greater body mass).
Mean Difference in Body Weight ChangeBaseline and the last study visit (Up to 20 weeks)Mean difference in body weight change from baseline to last study visit (up to 20 weeks).
Mean Difference in Waist CircumferenceBaseline and the last study visit (Up to 20 weeks)Mean difference in waist circumference from baseline to last study visit (up to 20 weeks). Higher scores reflect worse outcomes.
Mean Difference in Systolic Blood Pressure ChangeBaseline and the last study visit (Up to 20 weeks)Mean difference in systolic blood pressure change from baseline to last study visit (up to 20 weeks).
Mean Difference in Diastolic Blood Pressure ChangeBaseline and the last study visit (Up to 20 weeks)Mean difference in diastolic blood pressure change from baseline to last study visit (up to 20 weeks).
Mean Difference in Resting Heart Rate ChangeBaseline and the last study visit (Up to 20 weeks)Mean difference in resting heart rate change from baseline to last study visit (up to 20 weeks). Expected normal heart rate ranges from 40 to 120. Higher scores reflect worse outcomes (poorer heart condition).
Mean Difference in Minutes Spent WalkingBaseline and the last study visit (up to 20 weeks)Mean difference in overall minutes spent walking per week from baseline to last study visit (up to 20 weeks). This information will be obtained from the participant's Fitbit. Higher scores reflect more minutes walking.
Mean Difference in Daily StepsBaseline and the last study visit (Up to 20 weeks)Mean difference in daily steps from baseline to last study visit (up to 20 weeks). This information will be obtained from the participants Fitbit. Higher scores reflect more daily steps.
Mean Difference Overall PANSS ScoreBaseline and the last study visit (Up to 20 weeks)Mean difference in the overall score from baseline to last study visit (up to 20 weeks). The PANSS is a semi-structured interview using a 30-item scale to evaluate the presence, absence and severity of Positive, Negative and General Psychopathology symptoms of schizophrenia. All 30 items are rated on a 7-point scale (1 = absent; 7 = extreme). Possible scores range from 30 to 210. Higher scores reflect worse outcomes (i.e. greater symptoms of psychosis).

Other

MeasureTime frameDescription
Mean Difference in Composite Score on the Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale (PACES)Baseline and the last study visit (Up to 20 weeks)Mean difference in composite score from baseline to last study visit (up to 20 weeks). 2. The PACES is an 18 item self-report scale. Answers are on a 7-point scale. Possible scores are averaged and range from 1-7. Higher scores reflect better outcomes (greater enjoyment of physical activity).
Mean Difference in Composite Score on the Basic Psychological Needs Scale (BPNS)Baseline and the last study visit (Up to 20 weeks)Mean difference in composite score from baseline to last study visit (up to 20 weeks). The BPNS is a 21 item self-report scale. Answer are on a 7-point Likert scale ranging from not at all true to very true. Possible scores on each subscale are averaged onto a scale of 1-7. Higher scores reflect better outcomes (better autonomy, competence, and relatedness).
Mean Difference in Composite Score on the Autonomy Support ScaleBaseline and the last study visit (Up to 20 weeks)Mean difference in composite score from mid-treatment to last study visit (up to 20 weeks). The Autonomy Scale is a 6 item self-report scale. Answers are made using a 7-point scale. Possible scores range from 7 to 46. Higher scores reflect better outcomes (better relationship between research participant and staff.
End of Study SurveyPost treatment only (16 weeks)Total score at Post treatment visit only (16 weeks). The End of Study survey measures participant's satisfaction and feedback with the PACE-Life trial. The survey is a 18 item self-report scale, consisting of both Likert scale and open-ended items. Answers are made using a 5-point Likert scale. Possible scores on each item range from 1-5. Higher scores reflect higher levels of satisfaction and enjoyment in the study.
Mean Difference in Composite Motivation Score on the Behavioral Regulation Exercise Questionnaire (BREQ-2)Baseline and the last study visit (Up to 20 weeks)Mean difference in composite motivation score from baseline to last study visit (up to 20 weeks). The BREQ-2 is a 19 item self-report scale. Answers are on a 5 point Likert scale ranging from 0 to 4. 0 corresponds to not true for me and 4 corresponds to very true for me. Possible scores are averaged and range from 0-4. Higher scores reflect better outcomes (higher autonomous motivation to exercise).
Mean Difference in Composite Score on the Basic Psychological Needs in Exercise Scale (BPNES)Baseline and the last study visit (Up to 20 weeks)Mean difference in composite score from baseline to last study visit (up to 20 weeks). The BPNE is an 11 item self-report scale. Answers are on a 5 point Likert scale ranging from I don't agree at all to I completely agree. Possible scores are averaged and range from 1-5. Higher scores reflect better outcomes (i.e. more psychological needs being met through exercise).

Countries

United States

Participant flow

Pre-assignment details

Participants were randomly assigned to a group by an unblinded research assistant after they were screened as eligible and created a baseline appointment time with the research coordinator.

Participants by arm

ArmCount
Walking Group
Participants will be walking two times a week in supervised virtual walking groups on a secure online platform (Zoom) and will also participate in independent walks done at a location of their own choosing outside group participation. PACE-Life: PACE-Life Groups will occur twice per week for 15 minutes in the first two weeks, progressing to 30-minute walking sessions over the course of the intervention without changes in frequency. The intensity of virtual walks will increase throughout this intervention in a stepwise fashion to create an exercise dose response to maximize impact on CRF.
24
Fitbit Alone
Participants will be provided with a Fitbit wristband and instructed how to use it. Participants will also be given information on current recommended physical activity guidelines and told that study staff may be contacting them on a weekly basis if it looks like participants are not wearing their Fitbit for a certain number of days or to troubleshoot any issues. Exercise Intervention: Data from Fitbit devices will be synced and accessed through Fitbit.com. Participants will be provided account information to view data but will be asked not to change any of the settings as the investigators will be using data for tracking steps/day and minutes spent walking.
26
Total50

Withdrawals & dropouts

PeriodReasonFG000FG001
Overall StudyLost to Follow-up31
Overall StudyWithdrawal by Subject15

Baseline characteristics

CharacteristicFitbit AloneTotalWalking Group
Age, Continuous39.89 years40.14 years40.38 years
Ethnicity (NIH/OMB)
Hispanic or Latino
1 Participants5 Participants4 Participants
Ethnicity (NIH/OMB)
Not Hispanic or Latino
25 Participants45 Participants20 Participants
Ethnicity (NIH/OMB)
Unknown or Not Reported
0 Participants0 Participants0 Participants
MINI - Psychotic Disorders
Current mood disorder w/ psychotic features
0 Participants0 Participants0 Participants
MINI - Psychotic Disorders
Current psychotic disorder
13 Participants26 Participants13 Participants
MINI - Psychotic Disorders
Lifetime mood disorder w/ psychotic features
2 Participants4 Participants2 Participants
MINI - Psychotic Disorders
Lifetime psychotic disorder
25 Participants47 Participants22 Participants
Occupation
Employed
4 Participants11 Participants7 Participants
Occupation
Student
6 Participants6 Participants0 Participants
Occupation
Unemployed/Disability
16 Participants33 Participants17 Participants
Race (NIH/OMB)
American Indian or Alaska Native
0 Participants0 Participants0 Participants
Race (NIH/OMB)
Asian
2 Participants5 Participants3 Participants
Race (NIH/OMB)
Black or African American
6 Participants13 Participants7 Participants
Race (NIH/OMB)
More than one race
2 Participants5 Participants3 Participants
Race (NIH/OMB)
Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander
0 Participants0 Participants0 Participants
Race (NIH/OMB)
Unknown or Not Reported
0 Participants0 Participants0 Participants
Race (NIH/OMB)
White
16 Participants27 Participants11 Participants
Region of Enrollment
United States
26 Participants50 Participants24 Participants
Sex: Female, Male
Female
11 Participants25 Participants14 Participants
Sex: Female, Male
Male
15 Participants25 Participants10 Participants
WRAT 3 Word Reading Task (Raw Score)37.05 units on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 3.09
36.65 units on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 3.23
36.24 units on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 3.49

Adverse events

Event typeEG000
affected / at risk
EG001
affected / at risk
deaths
Total, all-cause mortality
0 / 240 / 26
other
Total, other adverse events
0 / 240 / 26
serious
Total, serious adverse events
1 / 240 / 26

Outcome results

Primary

Difference in Participant's Total Distance During 6-minute Walk

The 6-minute walk test (6MWT) will be used to measure cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) during which individuals will be asked to walk continuously for six minutes on a flat, indoor surface around cones (separated by 100ft). The possible distance range is 400 meters to 650 meters. Higher scores reflect better outcomes (greater physical fitness).

Time frame: Baseline and the last study visit (Up to 20 weeks)

Population: Participants were only analyzed from cohorts 2 and 3 as cohort 1 was deemed not comparable (protocol changes \& cancellation after 7 groups due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic). Participants who completed assessments from home were unable to provide data on this measure (n=5 in walking group, n=9 in fitbit alone). Post-treatment data are not available for participants who withdrew or were lost to follow-up (n=1 in walking group, n=2 in Fitbit alone).

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
Walking GroupDifference in Participant's Total Distance During 6-minute WalkBaseline458.775 metersStandard Deviation 91.467
Walking GroupDifference in Participant's Total Distance During 6-minute WalkPost-treatment452.355 metersStandard Deviation 103.346
Fitbit AloneDifference in Participant's Total Distance During 6-minute WalkBaseline467.209 metersStandard Deviation 83.828
Fitbit AloneDifference in Participant's Total Distance During 6-minute WalkPost-treatment448.711 metersStandard Deviation 59.594
Comparison: Posttreatment - Baseline: 10 participants analyzed (had data at both time points)
Comparison: Posttreatment - Baseline: 9 participants analyzed (had data at both time points)
Secondary

Mean Difference in Body Mass Index (BMI) Change

Mean difference in BMI from baseline to last study visit (up to 20 weeks). Expected normal BMI ranges from 14 to 54. Higher scores reflect worse outcomes (i.e., greater body mass).

Time frame: Baseline and the last study visit (Up to 20 weeks)

Population: Participants were only analyzed from cohorts 2 and 3 as cohort 1 was deemed not comparable (protocol changes \& cancellation after 7 groups due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic). Some participants who completed assessments from home were unable to provide accurate data on this measure (n=2 in walking group, n=2 in fitbit alone). Post-treatment data are not available for participants who withdrew or were lost to follow-up (n=2 in Fitbit alone).

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
Walking GroupMean Difference in Body Mass Index (BMI) ChangeBaseline36.026 kg/m^2Standard Deviation 8.296
Walking GroupMean Difference in Body Mass Index (BMI) ChangePost-treatment33.553 kg/m^2Standard Deviation 6.764
Fitbit AloneMean Difference in Body Mass Index (BMI) ChangeBaseline36.872 kg/m^2Standard Deviation 9.819
Fitbit AloneMean Difference in Body Mass Index (BMI) ChangePost-treatment36.262 kg/m^2Standard Deviation 11.183
Comparison: Posttreatment - Baseline: 13 participants analyzed (had data at both time points)
Comparison: Posttreatment - Baseline: 15 participants analyzed (had data at both time points)
Secondary

Mean Difference in Body Weight Change

Mean difference in body weight change from baseline to last study visit (up to 20 weeks).

Time frame: Baseline and the last study visit (Up to 20 weeks)

Population: Participants were only analyzed from cohorts 2 and 3 as cohort 1 was deemed not comparable (protocol changes \& cancellation after 7 groups due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic). Some participants who completed assessments from home were unable to provide accurate data on this measure (n=2 in fitbit alone). Post-treatment data are not available for participants who withdrew or were lost to follow-up (n=2 in walking group, n=3 in Fitbit alone).

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
Walking GroupMean Difference in Body Weight ChangeBaseline228.11 lbsStandard Deviation 60.56
Walking GroupMean Difference in Body Weight ChangePost-treatment220.96 lbsStandard Deviation 47.62
Fitbit AloneMean Difference in Body Weight ChangeBaseline240.88 lbsStandard Deviation 66.43
Fitbit AloneMean Difference in Body Weight ChangePost-treatment235.75 lbsStandard Deviation 74.29
Comparison: Posttreatment - Baseline: 15 participants analyzed (had data at both time points)
Comparison: Posttreatment - Baseline: 15 participants analyzed (had data at both time points)
Secondary

Mean Difference in Daily Steps

Mean difference in daily steps from baseline to last study visit (up to 20 weeks). This information will be obtained from the participants Fitbit. Higher scores reflect more daily steps.

Time frame: Baseline and the last study visit (Up to 20 weeks)

Population: Participants were only analyzed from cohorts 2 and 3 as cohort 1 was deemed not comparable (protocol changes \& cancellation after 7 groups due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic). Data was not available from all participants as it was dependent upon consistent daily wearing of Fitbit device. Post-treatment data are not available for participants who withdrew or were lost to follow-up (n=3 in walking group, n=2 in Fitbit alone).

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
Walking GroupMean Difference in Daily StepsBaseline4940.529 steps/dayStandard Deviation 4463.869
Walking GroupMean Difference in Daily StepsPost-treatment4274.429 steps/dayStandard Deviation 3039.565
Fitbit AloneMean Difference in Daily StepsBaseline5010.667 steps/dayStandard Deviation 3487.757
Fitbit AloneMean Difference in Daily StepsPost-treatment4503.875 steps/dayStandard Deviation 3860.307
Comparison: Posttreatment - Baseline: 14 participants analyzed (had data at both time points)
Comparison: Posttreatment - Baseline: 15 participants analyzed (had data at both time points)
Secondary

Mean Difference in Diastolic Blood Pressure Change

Mean difference in diastolic blood pressure change from baseline to last study visit (up to 20 weeks).

Time frame: Baseline and the last study visit (Up to 20 weeks)

Population: Participants were only analyzed from cohorts 2 and 3 as cohort 1 was deemed not comparable (protocol changes \& cancellation after 7 groups due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic). Some participants who completed assessments from home were unable to provide accurate data on this measure (n=2 in fitbit alone). Post-treatment data are not available for participants who withdrew or were lost to follow-up (n=2 in walking group, n=3 in Fitbit alone).

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
Walking GroupMean Difference in Diastolic Blood Pressure ChangeBaseline77.647 mmHgStandard Deviation 8.746
Walking GroupMean Difference in Diastolic Blood Pressure ChangePost-treatment76.000 mmHgStandard Deviation 9.921
Fitbit AloneMean Difference in Diastolic Blood Pressure ChangeBaseline81.111 mmHgStandard Deviation 10.459
Fitbit AloneMean Difference in Diastolic Blood Pressure ChangePost-treatment78.533 mmHgStandard Deviation 13.174
Comparison: Posttreatment - Baseline: 14 participants analyzed (had data at both time points)
Comparison: Posttreatment - Baseline: 14 participants analyzed (had data at both time points)
Secondary

Mean Difference in Minutes Spent Walking

Mean difference in overall minutes spent walking per week from baseline to last study visit (up to 20 weeks). This information will be obtained from the participant's Fitbit. Higher scores reflect more minutes walking.

Time frame: Baseline and the last study visit (up to 20 weeks)

Population: Participants were only analyzed from cohorts 2 and 3 as cohort 1 was deemed not comparable (protocol changes \& cancellation after 7 groups due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic). Data was not available from all participants as it was dependent upon consistent daily wearing of Fitbit device. Post-treatment data are not available for participants who withdrew or were lost to follow-up (n=2 in walking group, n=2 in Fitbit alone).

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
Walking GroupMean Difference in Minutes Spent WalkingBaseline31.647 minutes/weekStandard Deviation 40.812
Walking GroupMean Difference in Minutes Spent WalkingPost-treatment55.866 minutes/weekStandard Deviation 83.874
Fitbit AloneMean Difference in Minutes Spent WalkingBaseline44.278 minutes/weekStandard Deviation 88.842
Fitbit AloneMean Difference in Minutes Spent WalkingPost-treatment58.188 minutes/weekStandard Deviation 149.56
Comparison: Posttreatment - Baseline: 15 participants analyzed (had data at both time points)
Comparison: Posttreatment - Baseline: 15 participants analyzed (had data at both time points)
Secondary

Mean Difference in Resting Heart Rate Change

Mean difference in resting heart rate change from baseline to last study visit (up to 20 weeks). Expected normal heart rate ranges from 40 to 120. Higher scores reflect worse outcomes (poorer heart condition).

Time frame: Baseline and the last study visit (Up to 20 weeks)

Population: Participants were only analyzed from cohorts 2 and 3 as cohort 1 was deemed not comparable (protocol changes \& cancellation after 7 groups due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic). Some participants who completed assessments from home were unable to provide accurate data on this measure (n=1 in walking group, n=4 in fitbit alone). Post-treatment data are not available for participants who withdrew or were lost to follow-up (n=1 in walking group).

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
Walking GroupMean Difference in Resting Heart Rate ChangeBaseline77.188 beats per minuteStandard Deviation 12.319
Walking GroupMean Difference in Resting Heart Rate ChangePost-treatment82.133 beats per minuteStandard Deviation 10.548
Fitbit AloneMean Difference in Resting Heart Rate ChangeBaseline77.313 beats per minuteStandard Deviation 13.459
Fitbit AloneMean Difference in Resting Heart Rate ChangePost-treatment80.625 beats per minuteStandard Deviation 8.966
Comparison: Posttreatment - Baseline: 14 participants analyzed (had data at both time points)
Comparison: Posttreatment - Baseline: 14 participants analyzed (had data at both time points)
Secondary

Mean Difference in Systolic Blood Pressure Change

Mean difference in systolic blood pressure change from baseline to last study visit (up to 20 weeks).

Time frame: Baseline and the last study visit (Up to 20 weeks)

Population: Participants were only analyzed from cohorts 2 and 3 as cohort 1 was deemed not comparable (protocol changes \& cancellation after 7 groups due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic). Some participants who completed assessments from home were unable to provide accurate data on this measure (n=2 in fitbit alone). Post-treatment data are not available for participants who withdrew or were lost to follow-up (n=2 in walking group, n=3 in Fitbit alone).

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
Walking GroupMean Difference in Systolic Blood Pressure ChangeBaseline125 mmHgStandard Deviation 9.663
Walking GroupMean Difference in Systolic Blood Pressure ChangePost-treatment122 mmHgStandard Deviation 9.878
Fitbit AloneMean Difference in Systolic Blood Pressure ChangeBaseline129.167 mmHgStandard Deviation 8.333
Fitbit AloneMean Difference in Systolic Blood Pressure ChangePost-treatment124.867 mmHgStandard Deviation 12.047
Comparison: Posttreatment - Baseline: 15 participants analyzed (had data at both time points)
Comparison: Posttreatment - Baseline: 14 participants analyzed (had data at both time points)
Secondary

Mean Difference in Waist Circumference

Mean difference in waist circumference from baseline to last study visit (up to 20 weeks). Higher scores reflect worse outcomes.

Time frame: Baseline and the last study visit (Up to 20 weeks)

Population: Participants were only analyzed from cohorts 2 and 3 as cohort 1 was deemed not comparable (protocol changes \& cancellation after 7 groups due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic). Some participants who completed assessments from home were unable to provide accurate data on this measure (n=4 in walking group, n=7 in fitbit alone). Post-treatment data are not available for participants who withdrew or were lost to follow-up (n=1 in walking group, n=2 in Fitbit alone).

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
Walking GroupMean Difference in Waist CircumferenceBaseline109.88 cmStandard Deviation 18.58
Walking GroupMean Difference in Waist CircumferencePost-treatment106.94 cmStandard Deviation 17.54
Fitbit AloneMean Difference in Waist CircumferenceBaseline112.30 cmStandard Deviation 20.82
Fitbit AloneMean Difference in Waist CircumferencePost-treatment115.94 cmStandard Deviation 27.36
Comparison: Posttreatment - Baseline: 11 participants analyzed (had data at both time points)
Comparison: Posttreatment - Baseline: 11 participants analyzed (had data at both time points)
Secondary

Mean Difference Overall PANSS Score

Mean difference in the overall score from baseline to last study visit (up to 20 weeks). The PANSS is a semi-structured interview using a 30-item scale to evaluate the presence, absence and severity of Positive, Negative and General Psychopathology symptoms of schizophrenia. All 30 items are rated on a 7-point scale (1 = absent; 7 = extreme). Possible scores range from 30 to 210. Higher scores reflect worse outcomes (i.e. greater symptoms of psychosis).

Time frame: Baseline and the last study visit (Up to 20 weeks)

Population: Participants were only analyzed from cohorts 2 and 3 as cohort 1 was deemed not comparable (protocol changes \& cancellation after 7 groups due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic). Post-treatment data are not available for participants who withdrew or were lost to follow-up (n=2 in walking group, n=4 in Fitbit alone).

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
Walking GroupMean Difference Overall PANSS ScoreBaseline62.588 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 12.227
Walking GroupMean Difference Overall PANSS ScorePost-treatment55.467 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 9.211
Fitbit AloneMean Difference Overall PANSS ScoreBaseline60.700 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 9.183
Fitbit AloneMean Difference Overall PANSS ScorePost-treatment61.062 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 14.289
Comparison: Posttreatment - Baseline: 15 participants analyzed (had data at both time points)
Comparison: Posttreatment - Baseline: 16 participants analyzed (had data at both time points)
Secondary

Mean Difference Overall UCLA Loneliness Scale Score

Mean difference in overall score from baseline to last study visit (up to 20 weeks). The UCLA Loneliness scale is a 20 item scale. Answers are on a 4 point scale with options I often feel this way, I sometimes feel this way, I rarely feel this way, and I never feel this way. Possible scores range from 20 to 80. Higher scores reflect worse outcomes (greater feelings of loneliness).

Time frame: Baseline and the last study visit (Up to 20 weeks)

Population: Participants were only analyzed from cohorts 2 and 3 as cohort 1 was deemed not comparable (protocol changes \& cancellation after 7 groups due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic). Post-treatment data are not available for participants who withdrew or were lost to follow-up (n=2 in walking group, n=4 in Fitbit alone).

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
Walking GroupMean Difference Overall UCLA Loneliness Scale ScoreBaseline48.588 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 11.979
Walking GroupMean Difference Overall UCLA Loneliness Scale ScorePost-treatment50.133 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 10.37
Fitbit AloneMean Difference Overall UCLA Loneliness Scale ScoreBaseline46.450 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 11.353
Fitbit AloneMean Difference Overall UCLA Loneliness Scale ScorePost-treatment47.812 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 11.485
Comparison: Posttreatment - Baseline: 15 participants analyzed (had data at both time points)
Comparison: Posttreatment - Baseline: 16 participants analyzed (had data at both time points)
Other Pre-specified

End of Study Survey

Total score at Post treatment visit only (16 weeks). The End of Study survey measures participant's satisfaction and feedback with the PACE-Life trial. The survey is a 18 item self-report scale, consisting of both Likert scale and open-ended items. Answers are made using a 5-point Likert scale. Possible scores on each item range from 1-5. Higher scores reflect higher levels of satisfaction and enjoyment in the study.

Time frame: Post treatment only (16 weeks)

Other Pre-specified

Mean Difference in Composite Motivation Score on the Behavioral Regulation Exercise Questionnaire (BREQ-2)

Mean difference in composite motivation score from baseline to last study visit (up to 20 weeks). The BREQ-2 is a 19 item self-report scale. Answers are on a 5 point Likert scale ranging from 0 to 4. 0 corresponds to not true for me and 4 corresponds to very true for me. Possible scores are averaged and range from 0-4. Higher scores reflect better outcomes (higher autonomous motivation to exercise).

Time frame: Baseline and the last study visit (Up to 20 weeks)

Other Pre-specified

Mean Difference in Composite Score on the Autonomy Support Scale

Mean difference in composite score from mid-treatment to last study visit (up to 20 weeks). The Autonomy Scale is a 6 item self-report scale. Answers are made using a 7-point scale. Possible scores range from 7 to 46. Higher scores reflect better outcomes (better relationship between research participant and staff.

Time frame: Baseline and the last study visit (Up to 20 weeks)

Other Pre-specified

Mean Difference in Composite Score on the Basic Psychological Needs in Exercise Scale (BPNES)

Mean difference in composite score from baseline to last study visit (up to 20 weeks). The BPNE is an 11 item self-report scale. Answers are on a 5 point Likert scale ranging from I don't agree at all to I completely agree. Possible scores are averaged and range from 1-5. Higher scores reflect better outcomes (i.e. more psychological needs being met through exercise).

Time frame: Baseline and the last study visit (Up to 20 weeks)

Other Pre-specified

Mean Difference in Composite Score on the Basic Psychological Needs Scale (BPNS)

Mean difference in composite score from baseline to last study visit (up to 20 weeks). The BPNS is a 21 item self-report scale. Answer are on a 7-point Likert scale ranging from not at all true to very true. Possible scores on each subscale are averaged onto a scale of 1-7. Higher scores reflect better outcomes (better autonomy, competence, and relatedness).

Time frame: Baseline and the last study visit (Up to 20 weeks)

Other Pre-specified

Mean Difference in Composite Score on the Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale (PACES)

Mean difference in composite score from baseline to last study visit (up to 20 weeks). 2. The PACES is an 18 item self-report scale. Answers are on a 7-point scale. Possible scores are averaged and range from 1-7. Higher scores reflect better outcomes (greater enjoyment of physical activity).

Time frame: Baseline and the last study visit (Up to 20 weeks)

Source: ClinicalTrials.gov · Data processed: Feb 4, 2026