The Effect of Fitness Tracking on Exercise Habits and Motivation in College Age Individuals
Date
2023-08-10
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
MAPC, The University of Tampa
Abstract
Fitness tracking is a growing industry that is becoming extremely popular worldwide, making it important to understand its influence on physical activity. Several past studies have explored the connection between fitness trackers and exercise habits in attempts to reveal if there truly is a relationship. 94 college age individuals (18-24 years old) participated in the current study. Participants completed an online survey consisting of questions about motivation levels, exercise habits, and perceptions on fitness trackers. The majority of participants that own and use a fitness tracker agreed that their motivation levels and weekly exercise minutes have increased since purchasing a fitness tracker. There was no significant finding that motivational messages from fitness trackers increase motivation levels. The most frequent responses about the most motivating part of fitness trackers involved closing rings, seeing calories burned, and step tracking. These findings suggest fitness tracking may be used to increase activity and motivation levels in those living a sedentary lifestyle, needing additional incentive, or simply looking to become more active and invested in their exercise routine.
Description
Capstone project for completion of the Masters of Arts in Professional Communication (MAPC)
item.page.type
Other
item.page.format
Keywords
Fitness, Exercise, Motivation