Behaviour change in the palm of your hand: Analyses of app-logged exercise following a Diabetes prevention program

Oral Presentation C4.1

Authors

  • Megan MacPherson University of British Columbia
  • Kohle Merry University of British Columbia
  • Sean Locke Brock University
  • Mary Jung University of British Columbia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14288/hfjc.v14i3.664

Keywords:

Mobile Applications, Self-Monitoring, Prediabetic State, Physical Activity

Abstract

Background: Mobile phone applications (apps) which allow for self-monitoring of daily physical activity (PA) are commonly used in diabetes prevention programs; however, there is a little research describing how people engage with such apps, what leads to sustained use, and whether app use translates to improved PA. Purpose: 1) explore participant engagement with two different exercise-logging apps, and 2) assess the relationship between the number of days and average daily time participants logged exercise, and accelerometry measured moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) in the six months following the Small Steps for Big Changes (SSBC) diabetes prevention program. Methods: SSBC has undergone an in-lab efficacy trial and effectiveness trial in the community. Participants in both the efficacy and effectiveness trials were provided with an app to log their exercise in the year following program completion. Efficacy trial participants were provided with an app which also integrated rewards and messaging features. Effectiveness trial participants used an app which did not have integrated rewards and messaging capabilities. Results: Small to medium correlations were found between app logged exercise and MVPA at six months (ranging from r = .32 to r = .43). 83% of efficacy trial participants and only 34% of effectiveness trial participants logging at least one day. Conclusions: These small to medium correlations may account for a clinically meaningful amount of PA. Messaging and reward features may have led to increased engagement in the efficacy trial. Researchers should focus efforts on improving participants’ adherence to self-monitoring apps to indirectly target PA. Funding: This study was supported by the WorkSafeBC research program (RS2018-TG04 to M.M.).

Published

2021-09-30

How to Cite

MacPherson, M., Merry, K., Locke, S., & Jung, M. (2021). Behaviour change in the palm of your hand: Analyses of app-logged exercise following a Diabetes prevention program: Oral Presentation C4.1. The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, 14(3). https://doi.org/10.14288/hfjc.v14i3.664