Obesity & OverweightNCT07500389
Postural Habits, Body Awareness, and Functional Performance Across BMI Categories in Women
An observational study of Obesity & Overweight and Body Mass Index, run by Ondokuz Mayıs University at 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye).
Trial summary
This cross-sectional study aims to investigate the relationship between postural habits and body awareness with functional performance across different body mass index (BMI) categories in women. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 18 to 65 years, women onlyHealthy volunteers can take part
- Conditions the study is for
- Obesity & Overweight, Body Mass Index, Postural Control
- What is being tested?
- Observational Assessment
- How many people
- 80 participants
- Where
- 1 siteTurkey (Türkiye)
- Study dates
- 30 Apr 2026to 1 Dec 2026
- Phase
- Observational
- Are there results?
- Not yet: the study is under way
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 18 to 65 years
- Women only
- Healthy volunteers accepted
- Adult, Older adult
Study population: The study population will consist of women aged 18-65 years recruited from the general community. Participants will be categorized into four groups based on body mass index (BMI): normal weight, overweight, obesity class I, and obesity class II-III.
Who may be able to join
- Female individuals aged 18-65 years
- Classified into BMI categories (normal weight, overweight, obesity class I, obesity class II-III)
- No obesity-related medical or surgical treatment in the last 6 months
- Able to understand instructions and complete questionnaires
Who cannot join
- Neurological disorders affecting mobility (e.g., stroke, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, peripheral neuropathy)
- Rheumatologic or inflammatory diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis)
- Severe orthopedic conditions limiting mobility (e.g., advanced osteoarthritis)
- Major surgery within the last 12 months affecting mobility or physical performance
- Pregnancy
- Acute musculoskeletal injury within the last 4 weeks
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country. Contact the study team or a site near you to ask about taking part.
Turkey (Türkiye)1 site
Ondokuz Mayis University
Samsun, Samsun, 55270
MİNE PEKESEN p KURTÇA, PhD, +903623121919, mine.pekesenkurtca@omu.edu.tr
About this study
Official title: Investigation of Postural Habits and Body Awareness in Relation to Functional Performance Across Body Mass Index Categories in Women
This cross-sectional study aims to investigate the relationship between postural habits and body awareness with functional performance across different body mass index (BMI) categories in women. Participants will be categorized into four groups based on BMI (normal weight, overweight, obesity class I, and obesity class II-III). Postural habits and awareness, body awareness, and functional performance will be assessed using validated questionnaires and performance-based tests. The study also aims to explore the potential contribution of central adiposity (waist circumference) and psychological factors to these relationships. Findings are expected to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the biomechanical and perceptual factors associated with obesity.
Read the detailed description
Obesity is a growing global public health concern that affects not only metabolic and cardiovascular systems but also musculoskeletal health, postural control, and proprioceptive mechanisms. Increased body mass and altered fat distribution, particularly abdominal adiposity, may lead to biomechanical changes such as anterior shift of the center of mass, altered load distribution, and increased stress on the lower extremities. These changes may negatively influence functional performance and postural organization.
Body awareness is a multidimensional construct involving the perception, interpretation, and regulation of internal bodily sensations, while postural habits reflect behavioral patterns related to body alignment in daily activities. Although previous studies have examined body awareness and functional performance in individuals with obesity, findings regarding their interrelationships remain inconsistent. Additionally, the combined evaluation of postural habits, body awareness, and functional performance across BMI categories is limited in the literature.
This study is designed as a cross-sectional, comparative investigation including women aged 18-65 years. Participants will be classified into four BMI categories according to World Health Organization criteria. Postural habits and awareness will be assessed using the Posture Habits and Awareness Scale (PHAS), and body awareness will be evaluated using the Body Awareness Questionnaire (BAQ). Functional performance will be measured using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test and the Five Times Sit-to-Stand (5×STS) test. A composite functional performance index will be created using standardized scores of these tests.
Anthropometric measurements including BMI and waist circumference will be obtained to assess general and central obesity. Additional variables such as physical activity level and psychological status (anxiety and depression) will also be evaluated.
The primary objective is to examine whether postural habits and body awareness differ across BMI categories and how these variables are associated with functional performance. Furthermore, the study aims to determine whether central adiposity contributes independently to these relationships when controlling for functional performance and psychological factors.
It is hypothesized that higher BMI levels will be associated with altered postural habits and body awareness, and that decreased functional performance will play a mediating role in these relationships. Additionally, waist circumference is expected to have an independent effect on postural and perceptual parameters.
- Conditions
- Obesity & Overweight, Body Mass Index, Postural Control, Body Awareness, Functional Performance
- Being tested
- Observational Assessment
- Keywords
- Postural habits, body awareness, Functional mobility, Physical activity
- Medical subject headings
- Obesity, Overweight, Motor Activity
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Observational AssessmentOther
Participants will undergo a comprehensive observational assessment including anthropometric measurements, self-reported questionnaires, and performance-based functional tests. Body mass index and waist circumference will be measured to classify participants into BMI categories. Postural habits and awareness will be evaluated using the Posture Habits and Awareness Scale (PHAS), and body awareness will be assessed the Body Awareness Questionnaire (BAQ). Functional performance will be measured using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test and the Five Times Sit-to-Stand (5×STS) test. No therapeutic or experimental intervention will be applied.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Normal Weight | Women aged 18-65 years with a body mass index (BMI) between 18.5 and 24.9 kg/m². Participants in this group represent the normal weight category and will be evaluated for postural habits, body awareness, and functional performance. Receives: Other: Observational Assessment | |
| Overweight | Women aged 18-65 years with a BMI between 25.0 and 29.9 kg/m². This group includes participants classified as overweight and will undergo the same assessments as other groups Receives: Other: Observational Assessment | |
| Obesity Class I | Women aged 18-65 years with a BMI between 30.0 and 34.9 kg/m². Participants in this group represent obesity class I and will be assessed for postural habits, body awareness, and functional performance. Receives: Other: Observational Assessment | |
| Obesity Class II-III | Women aged 18-65 years with a BMI of 35.0 kg/m² or higher. This group includes participants with higher levels of obesity and will undergo the same evaluation protocol. Receives: Other: Observational Assessment |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Postural Habits and Awareness Level (PHAS Score)
Postural habits and awareness will be assessed using the Postural Habits and Awareness Scale (PHAS), a validated self-reported questionnaire. The total score ranges from 21 to 105, with higher scores indicating better postural habits and greater awareness. The primary outcome will be the total PHAS score and its comparison across body mass index (BMI) categories, as well as its association with functional performance.
Measured: Baseline
Secondary outcomes (7)
Body Awareness Level (BAQ Score)
Body awareness will be assessed using the Body Awareness Questionnaire (BAQ), a validated self-reported instrument measuring sensitivity to normal bodily processes. The total score ranges from 18 to 126, with higher scores indicating greater body awareness. The BAQ score will be analyzed across BMI categories and in relation to postural habits and functional performance.
Measured: Baseline
Functional Mobility (Timed Up and Go Test)
Functional mobility and dynamic balance will be evaluated using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) Test. The time required to stand up from a chair, walk 3 meters, turn, return, and sit down will be recorded in seconds. Scores range from 0 to an upper limit depending on performance, with lower times indicating better functional mobility and balance.
Measured: baseline
Lower Extremity Functional Strength (5 Times Sit-to-Stand Test)
Lower extremity functional strength will be assessed using the Five Times Sit-to-Stand Test (5×STS). The time required to complete five repetitions of sit-to-stand will be recorded in seconds. Scores range from 0 to an upper limit depending on performance, with lower times indicating better functional performance.
Measured: Baseline
Composite Functional Performance Index
A composite functional performance index will be calculated by converting Timed Up and Go Test and Five Times Sit-to-Stand Test results into z-scores and averaging them. The index has no fixed minimum or maximum value, as it is derived from standardized scores. Higher scores indicate poorer functional performance. This index will be used to examine associations with postural habits, body awareness, and BMI categories.
Measured: Baseline
Waist Circumference (Central Obesity Indicator)
Waist circumference will be measured using standardized procedures to assess central adiposity. Values will be recorded in centimeters. There is no fixed minimum or maximum value, and higher values indicate greater central obesity. This measure will be analyzed as a continuous variable and as an indicator of central obesity in relation to postural habits, body awareness, and functional performance.
Measured: Baseline
Physical Activity Level (IPAQ-SF)
Physical activity level will be assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire - Short Form (IPAQ-SF). Total physical activity will be calculated as MET-minutes per week. Scores theoretically range from 0 to very high values depending on activity level, with higher scores indicating greater physical activity.
Measured: Baseline
Psychological Status (HADS Score)
Anxiety and depression levels will be assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). The scale consists of two subscales: anxiety (HADS-A) and depression (HADS-D), each ranging from 0 to 21. Higher scores indicate greater symptom severity (worse psychological status). These variables will be considered in relation to primary and secondary outcomes.
Measured: Baseline
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted30 Mar 2026
- Study start30 Apr 2026 (estimated)
- Primary completion1 Aug 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion1 Dec 2026 (estimated)
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for Obesity & OverweightStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- More trials run by Ondokuz Mayıs UniversityThe sponsor's other registered studies.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Observational
- Observational model
- Other
- Time perspective
- Cross-sectional
- Enrolment
- 80 participants (estimated)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Ondokuz Mayıs University
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Principal investigator, MİNE PEKESEN KURTÇA, Ondokuz Mayıs University
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07500389
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- Omu2026/168
- Status last verified
- Apr 2026
- First submitted
- 24 Mar 2026
- Last updated
- 7 Apr 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- Yes
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- No: The individual participant data will not be shared due to privacy concerns and restrictions in the informed consent provided by participants
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 7 Apr 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Investigation of Postural Habits and Body Awareness in Relation to Functional Performance Across Body Mass Index Categories in Women
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07500389
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- Omu2026/168
- Conditions
- Obesity & Overweight, Body Mass Index, Postural Control, Body Awareness, Functional Performance
- Keywords
- Postural habits, body awareness, Functional mobility, Physical activity
- Study type
- Observational
- Recruitment status
- Not yet recruiting
- Enrolment
- 80 participants (estimated)
- Lead sponsor
- Ondokuz Mayıs UniversityUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 30 Apr 2026 (estimated)
- Primary completion
- 1 Aug 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion
- 1 Dec 2026 (estimated)
- First posted
- 30 Mar 2026 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
This cross-sectional study aims to investigate the relationship between postural habits and body awareness with functional performance across different body mass index (BMI) categories in women. Participants will be categorized into four groups based on BMI (normal weight, overweight, obesity class I, and obesity class II-III). Postural habits and awareness, body awareness, and functional performance will be assessed using validated questionnaires and performance-based tests. The study also aims to explore the potential contribution of central adiposity (waist circumference) and psychological factors to these relationships. Findings are expected to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the biomechanical and perceptual factors associated with obesity.
Detailed description
Obesity is a growing global public health concern that affects not only metabolic and cardiovascular systems but also musculoskeletal health, postural control, and proprioceptive mechanisms. Increased body mass and altered fat distribution, particularly abdominal adiposity, may lead to biomechanical changes such as anterior shift of the center of mass, altered load distribution, and increased stress on the lower extremities. These changes may negatively influence functional performance and postural organization.
Body awareness is a multidimensional construct involving the perception, interpretation, and regulation of internal bodily sensations, while postural habits reflect behavioral patterns related to body alignment in daily activities. Although previous studies have examined body awareness and functional performance in individuals with obesity, findings regarding their interrelationships remain inconsistent. Additionally, the combined evaluation of postural habits, body awareness, and functional performance across BMI categories is limited in the literature.
This study is designed as a cross-sectional, comparative investigation including women aged 18-65 years. Participants will be classified into four BMI categories according to World Health Organization criteria. Postural habits and awareness will be assessed using the Posture Habits and Awareness Scale (PHAS), and body awareness will be evaluated using the Body Awareness Questionnaire (BAQ). Functional performance will be measured using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test and the Five Times Sit-to-Stand (5×STS) test. A composite functional performance index will be created using standardized scores of these tests.
Anthropometric measurements including BMI and waist circumference will be obtained to assess general and central obesity. Additional variables such as physical activity level and psychological status (anxiety and depression) will also be evaluated.
The primary objective is to examine whether postural habits and body awareness differ across BMI categories and how these variables are associated with functional performance. Furthermore, the study aims to determine whether central adiposity contributes independently to these relationships when controlling for functional performance and psychological factors.
It is hypothesized that higher BMI levels will be associated with altered postural habits and body awareness, and that decreased functional performance will play a mediating role in these relationships. Additionally, waist circumference is expected to have an independent effect on postural and perceptual parameters.
Study design
- Observational model
- Other
- Time perspective
- Cross-sectional
- Number of arms
- 4
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Normal Weight | – | Other: Observational AssessmentWomen aged 18-65 years with a body mass index (BMI) between 18.5 and 24.9 kg/m². Participants in this group represent the normal weight category and will be evaluated for postural habits, body awareness, and functional performance. |
| Overweight | – | Other: Observational AssessmentWomen aged 18-65 years with a BMI between 25.0 and 29.9 kg/m². This group includes participants classified as overweight and will undergo the same assessments as other groups |
| Obesity Class I | – | Other: Observational AssessmentWomen aged 18-65 years with a BMI between 30.0 and 34.9 kg/m². Participants in this group represent obesity class I and will be assessed for postural habits, body awareness, and functional performance. |
| Obesity Class II-III | – | Other: Observational AssessmentWomen aged 18-65 years with a BMI of 35.0 kg/m² or higher. This group includes participants with higher levels of obesity and will undergo the same evaluation protocol. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 18 to 65 years
- Sex
- Female only
- Healthy volunteers
- Accepted
- Age groups
- Adult, Older adult
- Study population
- The study population will consist of women aged 18-65 years recruited from the general community. Participants will be categorized into four groups based on body mass index (BMI): normal weight, overweight, obesity class I, and obesity class II-III.
Key inclusion criteria (4 listed)
- Female individuals aged 18-65 years
- Classified into BMI categories (normal weight, overweight, obesity class I, obesity class II-III)
- No obesity-related medical or surgical treatment in the last 6 months
- Able to understand instructions and complete questionnaires
Key exclusion criteria (6 listed)
- Neurological disorders affecting mobility (e.g., stroke, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, peripheral neuropathy)
- Rheumatologic or inflammatory diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis)
- Severe orthopedic conditions limiting mobility (e.g., advanced osteoarthritis)
- Major surgery within the last 12 months affecting mobility or physical performance
- Pregnancy
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Observational AssessmentParticipants will undergo a comprehensive observational assessment including anthropometric measurements, self-reported questionnaires, and performance-based functional tests. Body mass index and waist circumference will be measured to classify participants into BMI categories. Postural habits and awareness will be evaluated using the Posture Habits and Awareness Scale (PHAS), and body awareness will be assessed the Body Awareness Questionnaire (BAQ). Functional performance will be measured using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test and the Five Times Sit-to-Stand (5×STS) test. No therapeutic or experimental intervention will be applied. | Other | Normal Weight, Obesity Class I, Obesity Class II-III, Overweight |
Primary outcome
Postural Habits and Awareness Level (PHAS Score)
Time frame: Baseline
Postural habits and awareness will be assessed using the Postural Habits and Awareness Scale (PHAS), a validated self-reported questionnaire. The total score ranges from 21 to 105, with higher scores indicating better postural habits and greater awareness. The primary outcome will be the total PHAS score and its comparison across body mass index (BMI) categories, as well as its association with functional performance.
7 secondary outcomes
Body Awareness Level (BAQ Score)
Time frame: Baseline
Functional Mobility (Timed Up and Go Test)
Time frame: baseline
Lower Extremity Functional Strength (5 Times Sit-to-Stand Test)
Time frame: Baseline
Composite Functional Performance Index
Time frame: Baseline
Waist Circumference (Central Obesity Indicator)
Time frame: Baseline
Physical Activity Level (IPAQ-SF)
Time frame: Baseline
Psychological Status (HADS Score)
Time frame: Baseline
Results and safety
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 7 Apr 2026.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: No. The individual participant data will not be shared due to privacy concerns and restrictions in the informed consent provided by participants
Related trials for Obesity & Overweight
Active, not recruitingPhase 2
Effects of Brain Stimulation on Food Intake and Behavioral Weight Loss Treatment
Electric Stimulation Therapy, Obesity
Active, not recruiting
Adipocyte-Derived Extracellular Vesicles, Weight Loss, and Endothelial Function
Obesity, Weight Loss
Not yet recruitingPhase 2
Trial of the Combination of Alpha-Lipoic Acid and Mirabegron in Women and in Men With Obesity
Insulin Resistance, Obesity
Not yet recruitingObservational study
A Natural History of Genetic and Environmental Predictors of Pubertal Timing Among Youth With Obesity
Obesity
Not yet recruitingPhase 2
A Study to Evaluate Efficacy and Safety of BGM1812 Injection in Overweight or Obese Participants Without Diabetes
Overweight or Obese Participants Without Diabetes
Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part.
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
An observational study of Obesity & Overweight and Body Mass Index, run by Ondokuz Mayıs University at 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye).
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 4 inclusion and 6 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: opening soon, as of the sponsor's last update on 7 Apr 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye). Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
Contact Mine PEKESEN KURTÇA P PEKESEN KURTÇA, PhD (+903623121919, mine.pekesenkurtca@omu.edu.tr), or a site near the patient. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Postural Habits and Awareness Level (PHAS Score) (time frame: Baseline). It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 7 Apr 2026.