A Cleveland Clinic physician is leading new research aimed at helping underserved communities not just access exercise—but stick with it long term.
The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Foundation and the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine (AMSSM) Foundation have named Marcio Griebeler, MD, as the recipient of the 2026 Breaking Barriers Research Grant, recognizing innovative work to improve health outcomes in underserved populations.
Dr. Griebeler’s project, “MOVING Study: Methods to Optimize Visits in Neighborhood Gyms,” focuses on how community-based fitness programs can better support long-term engagement in physical activity.
Selected through a competitive, peer-reviewed process led by a joint ACSM–AMSSM committee, the grant provides up to $20,000 over two years to advance research addressing gaps in access, care and representation in sports medicine.
“We see it every day—improving access to exercise is only the first step,” said Dr. Griebeler. “Sustaining engagement with exercise long-term is still a major challenge, especially in underserved populations. This work is about meeting patients where they are and building programs that actually fit into their lives.”
Using real-world data from Cleveland Clinic’s SmartGym program, the study will combine behavioral science and community-based insights to design practical, scalable solutions that improve long-term participation in physical activity.
The proposal stood out for its strong potential to translate research into meaningful, real-world impact.
“This project gives genuine attention to the voices and experiences of community members and understands that sustaining physical activity is about more than motivation—it’s about context, support and belonging,” said R. Amadeus Mason, MD, FACSM, FAMSSM, on behalf of the review committee. “It reflects our shared belief that advancing effective, equitable care in sports and exercise medicine grows from authentic partnerships with the communities we serve.”
A Shared Vision for Community Health
The Breaking Barriers Research Grant represents a joint commitment by ACSM and AMSSM to expand who benefits from advances in sports medicine—particularly in communities historically underrepresented in research.
By supporting work that bridges clinical care, behavioral science and community engagement, the initiative reflects a broader vision: improving health outcomes by bringing evidence-based care into real-world settings.
For more information about the Breaking Barriers Research Grant, visit:
https://acsm.org/foundation/funding
Journalists: Reach out to Caitlin Kinser.
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About ACSM
The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) is the largest sports medicine and exercise science organization in the world, with nearly 50,000 members and certified professionals in more than 100 countries. Together, ACSM is committed to the mission of educating and empowering professionals to advance the science and practice of health and human performance. ACSM advocates for legislation to help the government and health community make physical activity a priority.
About AMSSM
The American Medical Society for Sports Medicine (AMSSM) is a multidisciplinary organization of sports medicine physicians dedicated to education, research, advocacy, and the care of athletes of all ages and levels.
