Behavior Change Techniques Present in Wearable Activity Trackers: A Critical Analysis.

Area of Science:

• Behavioral science
• Human-computer interaction
• Health technology

Background:

• Wearable activity trackers show promise for increasing physical activity and supporting health tracking.
• Many adults do not meet daily activity guidelines, highlighting the need for effective interventions.
• Wearable fitness trackers are increasingly recognized for their potential to boost adult physical activity levels.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate wearable activity trackers for behavior change techniques (BCTs) using the CALO-RE taxonomy.
• To assess if BCTs in trackers align with behavior change drivers like self-efficacy.
• To determine the applicability of these BCTs for older adults and the general population.

Main Methods:

• Seven Canadian wearable activity trackers were analyzed over a 1-week period.
• Two independent raters coded BCTs using the Coventry, Aberdeen, and London-Refined (CALO-RE) taxonomy.
• Interrater reliability was assessed using Cohen's kappa.

Main Results:

• Trackers averaged 16.3 out of 40 identified BCTs.
• Withings Pulse contained the most BCTs; Misfit Shine contained the fewest.
• Predominant BCTs involved self-monitoring and self-regulation, beneficial for physical activity in older adults; planning and instruction techniques were limited.

Conclusions:

• Wearable activity trackers include BCTs that can enhance physical activity in older adults.
• Current trackers offer substantial potential for BCTs applicable across all populations.
• Further research and development are necessary to fully realize wearables' potential as health interventions.