Exercise-priming of CBT for Depression: the CBT+ Trial

This study investigates the effects of intentionally sequencing aerobic exercise immediately prior to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to determine its effects on mechanisms of CBT (i.e., working alliance, behavioral activation). To assess the utility of this treatment augmentation, investigators will conduct a randomized controlled trial involving 100 adults with Major Depressive Disorder who will watch a nature documentary while either resting quietly ( 'CalmCBT') or exercising at a moderate intensity ('ActiveCBT') immediately prior to 8 weekly sessions of CBT.

NCT Number	NCT07221929
Lead Sponsor	University of Wisconsin, Madison Collaborators: National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Conditions	Major Depressive Disorder
Enrollment	100 participants
Start Date	2026-01-05
Primary Completion	2029-12 (estimated)
Study Completion	2029-12 (estimated)
Updated on ClinicalTrials.gov	2026-03-04