Using Smart mHealth Tools and Behavior Change Techniques to Promote Physical Activity and Improve Health in Adults with Sedentary Lifestyles

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating a Smart mHealth Strategy designed to promote physical activity and improve health among adults with a sedentary lifestyle and insufficient physical activity. This three-stage randomized controlled trial aims to deliver behavior change techniques through wearable physical activity trackers and social media chatbots. The strategy includes self-monitoring, real-time feedback, reminders, goal-setting, competition, rewards, social support, and health coaching, with data collected to study effects on behavior, psychological factors, and physical and mental health. Participants are randomly assigned to one of several groups, including a control group, a group using wearable devices only, and groups using wearable devices combined with one or more behavior change techniques. The techniques studied include reminders, social support, competition, goal-setting, health coaching, and a combination of all. The intervention uses smartwatches and specially designed chatbots to deliver these techniques over a 12-week period. During the study, participants complete self-administered questionnaires and wear devices to track physical activity objectively using Actigraphy GT9X and heart rate variability monitors. Additional measurements include body composition and blood pressure. Data collection occurs before, during, and after the intervention. Researchers assess physical activity levels, exercise attitudes, self-regulation, and psychological well-being, providing a comprehensive view of how the strategy impacts health and behavior.

Smart mHealth Strategy for Physical Activity and Health Promotion