Researchers are testing a new program called Energy2MOB that combines food education classes with physical activity to help adults with obesity lose weight. This study will follow 136 adults over one year—some in the program and some in a regular care group—to see if the classes help people lose 5-10% of their body weight. The program focuses on teaching people about healthy eating in a group setting, which may be more motivating and affordable than one-on-one coaching. If successful, this approach could help many adults manage their weight and reduce health problems linked to obesity.

The Quick Take

  • What they studied: Whether group food education classes combined with physical activity can help adults lose weight over one year
  • Who participated: 136 adults aged 18-65 from a health region in Spain who are overweight or have obesity (BMI between 27-40)
  • Key finding: The study is designed to detect weight loss of at least 2.5 kg (about 5.5 pounds) in the group receiving the program compared to the control group
  • What it means for you: If successful, this suggests that group-based food education might be an effective, accessible way to help people lose weight. However, this is a study protocol—the actual results aren’t available yet, so we’ll need to wait for the findings before knowing if it truly works.

The Research Details

This is a randomized controlled trial, which is considered one of the strongest types of research. Researchers will divide 136 adults into two groups: one group receives the Energy2MOB program (food education classes plus physical activity guidance), while the other group receives standard care. By randomly assigning people to groups, researchers can fairly compare whether the program actually works. The study will last one year, giving enough time to see if weight loss happens and sticks around. The researchers chose to look for a weight loss of at least 2.5 kg because that’s a meaningful amount that could improve health without being unrealistic.

Group-based programs may work better than individual programs because people feel supported by others facing the same challenges, which can increase motivation and adherence. Testing this approach in a rigorous way helps determine if it’s worth offering to more people. The study focuses on adults with BMI between 27-40, which includes both overweight and obese individuals, making the results relevant to many people.

This study has strong quality features: it’s a randomized controlled trial (the gold standard for testing treatments), it has ethical approval from a university research institute, participants will give informed consent, and results will be published in peer-reviewed journals. The study size (68 people per group) was calculated to have enough statistical power to detect real differences. However, this is a protocol paper—the actual results haven’t been collected yet, so we don’t know the outcomes.

What the Results Show

This paper describes the study plan rather than actual results, since the research is still ongoing or about to begin. The primary goal is to see if participants in the Energy2MOB program lose at least 2.5 kg more than the control group over one year. The researchers chose this target because losing 5-10% of body weight can significantly improve health markers like blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol. The study will measure weight at the beginning, during, and at the end of the year to track progress. Success would mean the program helps people lose weight in a way that’s better than standard care.

While the main focus is weight loss, the researchers will likely also measure other important health markers such as changes in waist size, fitness level, eating habits, and quality of life. These secondary outcomes help show whether weight loss is the only benefit or if the program improves overall health in other ways too.

Group-based food education programs have shown promise in previous research for helping people lose weight and keep it off. This study builds on that evidence by combining food education with physical activity guidance and testing it in a specific population in Spain. The one-year timeframe is longer than many weight loss studies, which is important because it shows whether changes last beyond the initial motivation period.

This is a protocol paper, so we don’t yet know if the program actually works—we only know the plan. The study is limited to one health region in Spain, so results may not apply to all populations. The study focuses on adults aged 18-65, so results won’t tell us about teenagers or older adults. Additionally, the study measures weight loss but doesn’t yet show whether participants can maintain the weight loss after the program ends.

The Bottom Line

Wait for the actual study results before making decisions based on this research. This protocol shows the study is well-designed and ethically approved, which is promising. Once results are published, adults with overweight or obesity who are interested in group-based weight loss programs should discuss this approach with their doctor. Moderate confidence: The study design is strong, but we need to see the actual outcomes.

Adults aged 18-65 with overweight or obesity who are interested in weight loss programs, especially those who prefer group settings or can’t afford individual coaching. Healthcare providers and public health officials should care because this could inform future obesity prevention programs. People with very high BMI (over 40) or serious health conditions should consult their doctor before starting any weight loss program.

If the program works, meaningful weight loss (5-10% of body weight) typically takes several months to achieve. The study runs for one year, so we should expect results to be published in 2026 or later. Real-world results may vary—some people may see changes faster, while others may take longer.

Want to Apply This Research?

  • Track weekly weight (same day, same time each week) and take body measurements (waist, hips) monthly. Also log attendance at food education sessions and minutes of physical activity daily to monitor program engagement.
  • Use the app to set a realistic weight loss goal of 5-10% of current body weight over 12 months. Join or create a group challenge within the app to replicate the group support aspect of Energy2MOB. Log meals and physical activity to increase awareness of eating and exercise patterns.
  • Create a dashboard showing weekly weight trends, monthly measurement changes, and program attendance rates. Set monthly check-in reminders to review progress and adjust goals if needed. Share progress with an accountability partner or group within the app to maintain motivation similar to the group education component.

This article describes a research study protocol, not completed research with results. The actual effectiveness of the Energy2MOB program has not yet been demonstrated. This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace advice from your healthcare provider. Before starting any weight loss program or making significant dietary changes, consult with your doctor, especially if you have existing health conditions, take medications, or have a history of eating disorders. Individual results vary based on genetics, lifestyle, and other factors. Weight loss should always be pursued safely and sustainably under professional guidance.