Wearable Activity Trackers That Motivate Women to Increase Physical Activity: Mixed Methods Study

Area of Science:

• Health behavior
• Human-computer interaction
• Wearable technology

Background:

• Physical inactivity is a major public health issue, especially for women in the US.
• Wearable activity trackers (WATs) show promise for increasing physical activity (PA).
• Effective WATs require features and designs that promote daily use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore women's preferred WAT features and designs.
• To determine if WATs with these attributes motivate women's PA.
• To understand women's experiences with different WATs.

Main Methods:

• Mixed-methods study guided by self-determination theory.
• 15 women trialed 3 WATs: Apple Watch, Oura Ring, Bellabeat Leaf Urban.
• Data collected via PA tracking, satisfaction ratings, and focus groups.

Main Results:

• Most participants were motivated but did not meet PA guidelines.
• Average wear time exceeded 16 hours daily across devices.
• Key desired features include comfort, long battery life, durability, immediate PA feedback, intuitive sensing, and programmability.

Conclusions:

• This study is the first to examine women's WAT experiences and preferences.
• Understanding women's perspectives on WATs is crucial for promoting PA.
• WAT design and features significantly influence women's motivation for physical activity.