CompletedInterventional

Game of Stones: Helping men to lose weight

Carrying extra weight can affect your health and energy, but many men feel that traditional slimming groups are not right for them. The Game of Stones study explores a new approach designed specifically for men. Researchers are testing whether motivational text messages—sent with or without financial incentives—can help men lose weight and keep it off for up to two years. The study is open to men aged 18 and over in Glasgow, Belfast, and Bristol with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. Participants get a free pedometer to count steps and access to weight-loss tips. Men are placed by chance into groups to receive text messages or join a waiting list. You will attend check-ups at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months to be weighed. You will also receive £20 vouchers at the one-year and two-year visits to thank you for your time.

At a glance

Status

Completed

Sponsor

University of Stirling

Enrolment target

585

Start

13 Jul 2021

Estimated completion

24 May 2022

Obesity

What is this study about?

Many men want to lose weight to improve their day-to-day fitness and reduce the risk of future health conditions such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Even so, men rarely sign up for standard commercial weight-loss clubs. Game of Stones was created alongside men who have tried losing weight in the past, aiming to build a service that fits comfortably into everyday life.

The study looks at whether text messages sent directly to your mobile phone can offer the right support, tips, and motivation to make healthier lifestyle choices. Researchers also want to find out whether offering small cash rewards encourages men to stick with their goals over time, compared to men who join a waiting list.

By following participants for two full years, the team hopes to discover if this method helps men keep weight off for good. They will also look at the overall costs to see if this kind of support is good value for the NHS, potentially leading to new health services for men across the UK.

Key takeaways

A free, two-year UK study testing text-message support and cash incentives for weight loss.
Designed specifically by men, for men aged 18 and over with a BMI of 30 or higher.
Open to men living in and around Glasgow, Belfast, and Bristol.
Includes a free step counter, simple check-ins, and £20 vouchers at 12 and 24 months.
No pills or strict meal plans; you choose the lifestyle changes that work for you.

Who may be eligible?

This trial is for men aged 18 or older who live in or near Glasgow, Belfast, or Bristol. To take part, you should have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more, which means carrying a noticeable amount of excess weight. You must also have your own mobile phone that can receive standard text messages, and you need to be able to understand the study details.

You cannot take part if you have joined another weight-loss research study in the past six months, or if you are planning to have weight-loss surgery within the next year. You will also be unable to join if you plan to move away from your area in the next 12 months.

Finally, the study is not suitable for people with severe medical, mental health, or memory conditions that would make attending appointments or reading text messages difficult or unsafe. If you are unsure, the study team can help confirm if it is right for you.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

I am a man aged 18 or older.
I live in or around Glasgow, Belfast, or Bristol.
My BMI is 30 or higher (I am carrying extra weight).
I own or use a mobile phone that can receive standard text messages.
I have not taken part in another weight-loss study in the past six months.
I am not planning to have weight-loss surgery or move house away from the area in the next year.

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you will be involved for two years. First, you will be placed into a study group by chance (like flipping a coin). Some men receive helpful text messages right away, while others are placed on a waiting list to receive them later. You will not need to take any medications.

All participants receive a free pedometer (step counter) and access to a website packed with healthy living advice. You are free to choose the diet and exercise habits that suit you best.

You will attend brief appointments at the start, and then at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months. At these visits, a researcher will measure your weight and ask simple questions about your health, lifestyle, and wellbeing. To thank you for giving up your time, you will receive a £20 gift voucher at your 12-month visit and another £20 voucher at your 24-month visit.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part offers free tools, like a step counter and helpful advice, to support your health goals. However, losing weight takes sustained effort and commitment, and it is completely normal to feel frustrated if your weight does not drop as quickly as you hope. There is also a chance you may be put on the waiting list before getting the text messages. You are welcome at every appointment no matter what the scales show. Taking part is completely voluntary, and you can change your mind and leave the study at any point without it affecting your regular NHS medical care.

Locations (3)

University of Stirling
Approximate
Stirling, Scotland
University of Bristol
Approximate
Bristol, England
Queen's University Belfast
Approximate
Belfast, Northern Ireland

Common questions

Do I have to pay anything to take part?

No, taking part is completely free. You will receive a free pedometer, and you will get £20 shopping vouchers at the 12- and 24-month appointments to thank you for your time.

What happens if I am put on the waiting list?

The waiting list helps scientists compare how well the text messages work. If you are on the waiting list, you still receive the step counter and website tips, and you will get the text service later.

Do I have to follow a strict diet plan?

No. The study provides information and guidance, but you are free to choose the foods you eat and the ways you prefer to stay active.

What if I do not lose any weight?

You are still fully supported and encouraged to attend all your check-ups. Researchers want to learn from everyone's real-world experiences, regardless of what the scales show.

Can I leave the study if I change my mind?

Yes. You have the right to withdraw from the trial at any time. You do not need to give a reason, and your everyday healthcare will not be affected.

How to find out more

Lisa Macaulay

gameofstones@stir.ac.uk +44 (0)1786 466118 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.