Mind over muscle: can daydreaming about your fit future get you off the couch?
NCT ID NCT06123182
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tests whether guided imagery—specifically, vividly imagining a future where you are physically active—can help mid-life adults stick to an exercise program. 160 participants will complete an in-person exercise program and be randomly assigned to different imagery exercises. Researchers will track exercise adherence, brain activity via MRI, and mood to see if this mental trick makes working out more appealing.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
guided imagery (episodic future thinking)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could offer a simple, drug-free way to help people stay active and potentially support healthy brain aging.
What could go wrong
This is an early-stage behavioral study with no direct health outcome measures. The effect on brain health is speculative, and results may not apply to everyone.
Disclaimer
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the original study
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Contacts and locations
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Study contacts
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Locations
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University of Kansas Medical Center
RECRUITINGKansas City, Kansas, 66160, United States
Contact Phone: •••-•••-••••