Research Center: Florida State University
Location: This is a remote research study
Lead Researcher: Dr. Bonnie Spring
IRB: This study has been reviewed and approved by the Florida State University Institutional Review Board (IRB no. STUDY00005828)

Could a more practical and affordable approach make weight loss more achievable? This study aims to compare three weight loss programs to determine which strategy works best for reducing weight with the least time and cost.

Participants will join a year-long program that involves surveys, health assessments, and potentially a smartphone app. Along the way, they’ll have the chance to make meaningful lifestyle changes that could lead to better health. Contribute to future medical advancements in weight loss.

Start your journey toward lasting change—join this study today!

• Participants will have the opportunity to participate in a weight loss program at no cost.
• Participants will be compensated with electronic gift cards for participating in this study. Compensation will only be provided to eligible participants who complete study assessments and cost-analysis surveys.
• Participants may gain insights into making positive health improvements through sustainable lifestyle changes.
• Participants will be contributing valuable information that may benefit those who wish to lose weight in the future.
• Participants will be helping to advance medical research.

• If you decide to participate in the study and later feel that you no longer wish to be part of it, you can withdraw at any time.
• Any information that you provide will be kept strictly confidential, except as required by law.
• Qualified health professionals will monitor your health as it relates to the study.

• Men and women aged 18 and above who are struggling with being overweight or obese
• Must weigh less than 396 lbs
• Must be interested in losing weight through diet and physical activity
• Must own a smartphone and be willing to install the study app on their phone
• Must not be currently participating in a formal weight loss program
• Must not have had a stroke or heart attack within the past 6 months
• Must not have diabetes that is currently being treated with insulin
• Must not use an assistive device for mobility
• Must be able to commit to the study for approximately 12 months

The study team will explain the research in its entirety but some details are:

• Participants will be asked to download and use a smartphone application specifically designed for the study, noting potential data usage costs if not connected to Wi-Fi.
• Participants may be asked to record their daily food intake and physical activity, either on the app or on paper, for 12 months.
• Participants will be asked to attend health sessions and follow-ups, including up to 22 video or phone sessions with a Health Promotionist and follow-up sessions at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months, each lasting 30–60 minutes. All assessments will take place remotely over Zoom video

Florida State University
Florida State University is a comprehensive research university that is deeply interdisciplinary across multiple schools. Its rigorous, yet empathetic academic environment is impactful, producing top-tier research, new knowledge, creative expression, and practical application