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Identifying Evidence-Informed Physical Activity Apps: Content Analysis
Mihiretu Kebede1,2,3, Berit Steenbock1,4, Stefanie Maria Helmer1,5
1Prevention and Evaluation, Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology - BIPS, Bremen, Germany.
JMIR Mhealth and Uhealth
|December 20, 2018
Summary
Few physical activity apps meet evidence-based guidelines or use behavior change techniques (BCTs). This study found that most apps lack objective measurement and accurate descriptions, limiting their effectiveness in promoting physical activity.
Area of Science:
- Digital Health
- Behavioral Science
- Mobile Health
Background:
- Physical activity is crucial for health and chronic disease prevention.
- Smartphone and fitness app markets have rapidly expanded.
- Physical activity apps can potentially help users meet recommended activity levels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify evidence-informed physical activity apps available in English and German.
- To assess the incorporation of behavior change techniques (BCTs) in these apps.
Main Methods:
- Systematic search of the Google Play Store using 25 keywords.
- Screening of app descriptions and screenshots based on predefined criteria.
- In-depth testing and coding of included apps using the Behavioral Change Technique Taxonomy v1 (BCTTv1).
Main Results:
- Out of thousands of apps, only 6 met all inclusion criteria.
- Few apps accurately reflected their content in descriptions or included objective physical activity measurement.
- The included apps utilized an average of 9 BCTs, with "goals and planning" and "feedback and monitoring" present in all.
Conclusions:
- Most available physical activity apps do not align with evidence-based guidelines or offer objective measurement.
- App descriptions often misrepresent features, and few apps effectively integrate multiple BCTs.
- Future app development should prioritize evidence-based guidelines and a broader range of BCTs to enhance physical activity promotion.
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