This study aims to test two strategies for weight loss maintenance. It involves two phases, a weight loss phase and a maintenance phase. During Phase I (the weight loss phase), participants will receive a 16-week, Web-based behavioral weight loss program that involves access to weekly weight loss information and weekly personalized feedback on diet, activity, and weight loss goals. Individuals who lose at least 5% of their initial body weight during this program, will be invited to participate in Phase II. During Phase II, two 4-month treatments for weight loss maintenance will be tested. At the beginning of Phase II, participants will be randomly assigned to one of the two maintenance programs: (1) a behavioral maintenance program that involves in-person group meetings plus daily exercises in which information about a healthy lifestyle is reviewed or (2) a behavioral maintenance program that involves in-person group meetings plus daily exercises in which descriptions of positive future events are reviewed. Throughout the study, participants will complete assessments that examine the effects of the interventions on delay discounting, physical activity, weight, and other important health and psychosocial outcomes.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 70 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Age between 18-70
* Body Mass Index between 30-50
* English Speaking
* Have a smartphone that can be used for study activities
Exclusion Criteria:
* Report being unable to walk 2 blocks without stopping
* Are currently participating in weight loss treatment, have a history of bariatric surgery, or lost ≥5% in the past 6-months
* Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant within 1 year
* Report a heart condition, chest pain during periods of rest or activity, or loss of consciousness on the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire
* Report a medical condition that could jeopardize their safety in a weight control program with diet and exercise guidelines
* History of or current traumatic brain injury, dementia or Alzheimer's disease; a history of Multiple Sclerosis, or other neurological disorders
* Report conditions that, in the judgment of the PI, would render them unlikely to follow the protocol (e.g., relocation, dementia, unable to read and write in English)
* Have no Internet access or unwilling to use personal smartphone for study.
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.