LEAP! Rx: A randomized trial of a pragmatic approach to lifestyle medicine

INTRODUCTION Clinicians lack the tools to incorporate physical activity into clinical care for Alzheimer's disease prevention. We tested a 52‐week exercise and health education program (Lifestyle Empowerment for Alzheimer's Prevention [LEAP! Rx]) that integrates clinician referrals and community‐based fitness resources. METHODS We randomized 219 participants to the LEAP! Rx (ie, exercise and monthly brain health education) or a standard‐of‐care control group and tested the effects on cardiorespiratory fitness, insulin resistance, body composition, lipids, and cognitive performance. RESULTS Physicians were able to connect their patients to a community lifestyle intervention. The intervention group increased in cardiorespiratory fitness at 12 and 52 weeks (p = 0.005). We observed no effects on secondary measures. Participants meeting 80% of weekly goals (150 min, moderate to vigorous activity) saw greater fitness improvements than those with less than 80% (p