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A Structured E-Investigation Into the Prevalence and Acceptance of Smartphone Applications by Exercise Professionals
Liam Bromilow1, Robert Stanton, Brendan Humphries
1School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, Queensland, Australia.
Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research
|February 7, 2020
Summary
Exercise professionals widely use smartphone apps for client interaction, citing benefits like information access and record keeping. However, underuse persists due to inexperience, suggesting a need for educational integration and professional recognition.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Science
- Sports Technology
- Digital Health
Background:
- Smartphone applications are increasingly integrated into daily life, presenting opportunities for enhancing professional practices in exercise science.
- Understanding the adoption and utilization patterns of these technologies among exercise professionals is crucial for optimizing client outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and acceptance of smartphone applications among exercise professionals.
- To identify the perceived benefits and barriers associated with using these applications in professional settings.
- To explore the likelihood of recommending smartphone applications to clients and patients.
Main Methods:
- An anonymous online survey comprising 29 items was distributed to accredited members of the Australian Strength and Conditioning Association and Exercise and Sports Science Australia.
- The survey collected data on demographics, smartphone proficiency, perceived benefits and barriers, and professional use of smartphone applications.
- A total of 249 exercise professionals completed the survey.
Main Results:
- Most respondents (71%) were male, with predominantly advanced, intermediate, or expert smartphone proficiency.
- Key benefits identified included fast information access (67%), time savings in record keeping (56%), and performance tracking (55%).
- A significant barrier reported was inexperience with specific applications (42%), despite 96% willingness to recommend apps for client self-tracking (53%).
Conclusions:
- Smartphone use is prevalent among exercise professionals, but the adoption of application and sensor technology remains underutilized.
- Enhanced acceptance necessitates integration into educational curricula, recognition by professional bodies, and strategic collaborations.
- Maximizing smartphone technology's potential requires a concerted effort to overcome current adoption barriers within the profession.
