Please note: Additional exclusionary criteria apply and further screening is required in person.
HEATWAVES is a research study funded by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and conducted by the Exercise, Technology and Cognition Laboratory (Principal Investigator: Dr. Sean Mullen). Details below.
IMPORTANT: We have learned that any of our contacts have been mistakenly flagged by our REDCap Screening Process (interest survey) suggesting that they are ineligible based on their responses (the link above). Dr. Mullen will be reviewing all data so please be sure to check your email over the next few days as you may receive an email from heatwaves@uillinois.edu inviting you for in-person screening at our lab. You may also get a call from our lab (217-300-7484) or it may show up as University of Illinois OR as a “blocked caller.” Please pickup and check your voicemails in the week that follow your submission to our Interest Survey, because it could be us trying to reach you!
Join the HEATWAVES Study: Improve Mobility and Manage Your Blood Pressure from Home!
Are you between the ages of 35 and 64, with slightly elevated blood pressure (prehypertension) and finding it harder to stay active? If so, the HEATWAVES study could be a perfect opportunity for you.
We’re looking for local C-U residents who:
- Are not currently meeting the recommended 150 minutes of weekly aerobic activity.
- Have untreated prehypertension (120-139 mmHg systolic, 80-89 mmHg diastolic).
- Experience mild mobility issues, such as joint pain, muscle weakness, fatigue, or other limitations that slow you down—but do not require the use of a wheelchair.
In this 12-week study, you’ll participate mostly from the comfort of your home and preferred park or walking paths. You’ll be assigned to one of four groups: walking, warm-water bathing, a combination of both, or a wait-list control group. Throughout the study, you’ll receive remote guidance and tools to help you track your progress such as a Fitbit (yours to keep, valued at $99). The study involves a 10-week intervention with pre- and post-testing appointments at the Exercise, Technology and Cognition Laboratory at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Why Participate?
- Convenience: Participate largely from home with minimal in-person visits.
- Support: Receive expert advice for lifestyle changes that can have big impacts.
- Health Benefits: Improve your mobility and manage your blood pressure in a supportive and flexible environment.
If you’re ready to take control of your health and improve your mobility, we’d love to hear from you! For more details or to see if you qualify, please reach out with any questions.
Click here to see if you qualify using our interest survey. Please contact us with any questions via email: heatwaves@uillinois.edu or etcresearch@illinois.edu .