Study of How Attention Affects the Placebo Effect on Cycling Performance Using Stationary Bikes

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying how different types of attention to sensory information can influence the connection between the mind and body, focusing on the placebo effect. The study explores mindful attention to improve how likely outcomes are perceived and directed attention to change outcome expectations, aiming to understand how these forms of attention can modify the placebo effect during physical activity. The study involves 128 healthy adults cycling on stationary bikes for about 60 minutes with alternating phases of attention manipulation. After a warm-up, participants receive a placebo drink described as highly stimulating. A separate control group of 32 participants completes the cycling without the placebo or attention manipulation. Heart rate monitors and cycling performance data will be collected during exercise without feedback to participants. Participants will undergo pre-intervention assessments, and their heart rate, emotions, and perceived fatigue will be tracked throughout the cycling session and recovery. The main outcome measured is fatigue at 30 minutes, with secondary outcomes including heart rate and perceived effectiveness of the placebo drink. The study is randomized with single blinding and is conducted by the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart.

The Role of Attention in Modulating the Placebo Effect