Texting your way to a healthier heart: study tests simple step goals

NCT ID NCT05425641

Completed Disease control Sponsor: Northwell Health Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether daily text messages with specific behavior change techniques could help sedentary adults at risk for cardiovascular disease walk an extra 1,000 steps per day. Over 600 participants received messages focused on goal setting, action planning, self-monitoring, or feedback. The goal was to see if these techniques could boost confidence and increase daily walking.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: behavioral intervention (goal setting, action planning, self-monitoring, and feedback via text messages)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could point toward simple, low-cost ways to help people at risk for heart disease become more active and improve their health.
What could go wrong: This is a behavioral study, not a drug trial. Results may vary widely between individuals, and the effect on long-term heart health is not directly measured.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

cardiovascular disorder Motor Activity Sedentary Behavior

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES PHYSICAL INACTIVITY

Contacts and locations

Locations

Institute of Health System Science

New York, New York, 10022, United States

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