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Strategic Timing of Resistance Training to Guard Against Antipsychotic-Induced Metabolic Syndrome
Sponsor: University College Dublin
Summary
This study is evaluating whether a supervised resistance training (strength training) programme is feasible to perform in a first-episode psychosis service. It is also evaluating if resistance training can prevent harmful weight gain and improve physical health in people who have recently been diagnosed with First-Episode Psychosis and are starting antipsychotic medication. Antipsychotic medications are essential for treating psychosis, but they frequently cause rapid weight gain and metabolic side effects (such as changes in blood sugar and cholesterol) within the first few months of treatment. Resistance training is a form of exercise that builds muscle and improves how the body uses energy. An excess of calories, which would otherwise lead to accumulation of fat (adipose tissue), can help build strength and increase muscle size when paired with resistance training. Participants in this study will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: Intervention Group: Participants will receive their standard medical care plus a 12-week resistance training programme. This involves attending two 60-minute exercise sessions per week, supervised by a qualified instructor. The sessions will include exercises using resistance bands, machine weights, and free weights tailored to the individual's ability. Control Group: Participants will receive standard medical care only for the first 12 weeks. The study uses a "crossover" design, which means that after the initial 12 weeks, the Control Group will be offered the same 12-week resistance training programme. The main goals of this study are to determine if it is feasible to run this type of exercise programme for this group of patients and to measure the effects of the training on body fat levels, muscle strength, and overall physical and mental health
Official title: Strategic Timing of Resistance Training to Guard Against Antipsychotic-Induced Metabolic Syndrome (START GAAIMS): A Feasibility Study for a Prospective, Two-Arm, Randomised Controlled Trial to Evaluate the Effects of a Resistance Training Intervention on Body Composition and Metabolic Health in People With First-Episode Psychosis
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - 65 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
40
Start Date
2026-02-01
Completion Date
2028-04-30
Last Updated
2026-02-09
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Resistance training programme
Participants will attend a 12-week supervised resistance training programme consisting of two 60-minute sessions per week. Each session includes a 5-10 minute aerobic warm-up, 45-50 minutes of resistance exercises, and a 5-minute cool-down. The programme is individualised and supervised by a qualified exercise practitioner. The intervention targets major muscle groups using 6-8 core exercises (e.g., chest press, lat pulldown, leg press, seated row, overhead press) performed in 3 sets of 6-12 repetitions. Training begins with resistance bands to establish technique (weeks 1-2) before progressing to machine and free weights. The principle of progressive overload is applied by increasing the weight once a participant can comfortably complete 3 sets of 10 repetitions in two consecutive sessions. Sessions are conducted in small groups to foster social support
Locations (1)
St Vincent's University Hospital / University College Dublin
Dublin, Ireland