A brief acceptance and mindfulness intervention for exercise in anxiety: Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

This paper describes a planned study to test whether a single session of a mindfulness and acceptance intervention can increase exercise behavior and physical activity among individuals with elevated anxiety symptoms. The authors will randomize 120 participants to either the mindfulness intervention or an inactive control condition. They will measure time exercised in the lab immediately and physical activity and psychological outcomes one week later. They will also test whether anxiety sensitivity mediates the effect of mindfulness on physical activity. If effective, the intervention could offer a way to increase exercise as a means to manage anxiety.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Physical exercise shows ameliorative effects on anxiety symptoms. Only about half of individuals in the United States meet recommended physical activity levels, and those with anxiety show even lower levels. One barrier to exercise among individuals with anxiety is anxiety sensitivity, which is the belief that anxiety and sensations that mimic symptoms of anxiety have harmful consequences. This study will test whether a single session of a mindfulness and acceptance intervention can increase exercise behavior and physical activity among individuals with elevated anxiety symptoms. We will randomize 120 individuals to the mindfulness intervention or inactive control condition. An immediate behavioral outcome measured by time exercised in the lab will assess efficacy of mindfulness, as well as physical activity and psychological outcomes one week later. In addition, we will test whether anxiety sensitivity mediates the effect of mindfulness on physical activity. If the mindfulness intervention is effective, it would provide a way to increase the use of exercise as an accessible and effective way to manage elevated anxiety.