Study on how emotions impact responses to running and fueling

Our Human Performance Laboratory at ÒÁµéÔ°ÊÓƵ is conducting a study on how emotional changes can impact the body’s responses to eating prior to running exercise. Currently, there is little research on how emotions such as anxiety, tension, happiness, etc. alter runners’ physiologic, metabolic, and perceptual responses to exercise and fueling. Participation involves:

  • Watching brief movie/video clips
  • Eating a standardized drink meal
  • Running on a treadmill for 30 minutes at moderate-to-vigorous intensities
  • A free body composition test ($50 value)

To be eligible:

  • Aged 18 to 55 years
  • Able to run for 30 minutes at a moderate-to-vigorous intensity without stopping
  • No diagnosis or signs/symptoms of cardiovascular disease or a metabolic disorder
  • Currently physically active (3+ days/week of exercise at a moderate or higher intensity)
  • No visual or hearing impairments interfering with ability to see and hear video clips
  • No allergies to Boost nutritional drink

Those who are interested or have questions may contact Patrick Wilson at pbwilson@odu.edu or 757-683-4783.

Participate in a study on how emotions impact responses to running and fueling

Sodium Bicarbonate Study

ÒÁµéÔ°ÊÓƵ’s Human Performance Lab are conducting a study to evaluate the impact of supplementing with sodium bicarbonate (also known as baking soda) on performance, physiological, and perceptual responses to high-intensity cycling. Sodium bicarbonate is a supplement sometimes used by athletes to attempt to improve performance. The study involves 5 visits to the lab over a period of several weeks. Participants receive a free body composition test ($50 value) and can earn up to $100 in gift cards over the course of the study.

If the following apply to you, you may be eligible:

  • Currently do moderate-to-high intensity endurance or intermittent (e.g., team sports) physical activity ≥4x/week
  • No lower-limb injury in the last month preventing running or cycling
  • Age of 18-50 years
  • Body mass index >18.5 kg/m2
  • No problems or difficulty swallowing capsules 
  • No history of GI surgery, including bariatric or weight-loss surgery 
  • No diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis) or irritable bowel syndrome
  • No diagnosis of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, kidney disease or, uncontrolled asthma
  • Not currently pregnant
  • No allergies or aversions to ingredients in the study supplements and capsules

This study is being conducted by Ian Winter, MS, RDN, PhD Student at ÒÁµéÔ°ÊÓƵ, and Patrick Wilson, PhD, RDN Associate Professor at ÒÁµéÔ°ÊÓƵ. If you have any questions or are interested in participating, please email Ian at iwint001@odu.edu. Advertising approved by Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at ÒÁµéÔ°ÊÓƵ IRB# 26-01-FB-0011.

Weight Loss and Hydration Study

The Human Performance Laboratory at ÒÁµéÔ°ÊÓƵ is examining the connections between body composition, metabolism, and hydration status with weight loss. We are specifically recruiting people who are currently trying to lose weight, or who are planning to try to lose weight in the next several months. Note, this study does not provide participants with any of the following: a weight loss program or advice; diet or exercise plans; or weight loss medications. Instead, we are looking for people who are trying to lose weight on their own or through working with their own healthcare provider, nutritionist, trainer, etc. 

Participation involves:

  • 4 lab visits over approximately 4 months
  • Body composition tests
  • Resting metabolism tests
  • Providing saliva and urine samples
  • Physical activity tracking

To be eligible

  • Age 18-70
  • Ability to read and understand English
  • Currently trying to, or planning to, purposely lose at least 10 pounds over the next 4 months, either through lifestyle, medication, or surgery
  • Body mass index of overweight or higher (i.e., 25 or higher)
  • Weight less than 550 lbs
  • No known kidney disease or liver disease
  • Not currently pregnant
  • No implanted electrical devices
  • No history of claustrophobia
  • No amputations
  • No current use of diuretics
  • No current urinary tract infection

This study is being conducted by Patrick Wilson, PhD, RDN Associate Professor at ÒÁµéÔ°ÊÓƵ. If you have any questions or are interested in participating, please email him at pbwilson@odu.edu. Advertising approved by Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at ÒÁµéÔ°ÊÓƵ IRB#: 26-01-FB-0003.

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