SAN DIEGO -- University of California San Diego researchers are trying to help men who are struggling to lose weight. They are conducting a research study called Men In Motion -- which takes a new approach to weight loss.

The program is designed for men between 25 and 55 years old. There are no weekly weigh-ins or meetings and the participants do everything via the Internet.

"It's not something you can treat with an eight-week diet. It's a management issue and you have to learn new skills associated with this," Dr. Kevin Patrick said.

"Men want to fit this into their schedule, like they're balancing their checkbook and fixing the car. We're attempting to build those concepts in a scientifically sound way," Patrick added.

San Diego resident Ricardo Olivio, 25, is participating in the study.

"I can set my own pace, own goals. It saves me time and I don't have to go somewhere to a group meeting or things like that," Olivio said.

After the initial consultation, participants are on their own, but if they don't keep up, a counselor will track them down online.

"They can say, 'Hey, I haven't heard from you' and find out if they're having any issues," Patrick said.

To reach his goal, Olivio eats more healthy food, does strength training, and wears a pedometer on his belt to ensure that he walks the recommended 10,000 steps a day.

"I really keep my pedometer. If I don't have enough steps, I try to make it to the gym that night," he said.

If you would like to participate in the research study, visit www.men-in-motion.org or call (858) 457-7282 or (866) 667-7223.

Patrick said participates are compensated for any travel costs.