Introduction: Existing evidence supports a positive relationship between smartphone use and sedentary behavior (i.e., high smartphone use is associated with high sitting). While evidence supports that smartphone use during physical activity reduces intensity, the relationship between daily smartphone use and daily physical activity is equivocal. Prior research assessing these relationships has relied on self-report survey instruments. The purpose of this research was to assess the relationship between minutes of smartphone use and physical activity (steps) using objective measures. Methods:  College-aged individuals (N = 50) completed a brief survey assessing daily screen time (min) and daily steps for the previous 10-days. This data was obtained from participants’ smartphone applications (e.g., “Health” and “Screen Time” apps) and the relationship was assessed. Results: There was a near moderate effect size for a negative correlation between average smartphone use and steps (r = -0.25). Mixed model regression indicated that this relationship was significant (F = 3.65, p = 0.00019). Conclusions: The results differ from prior research which has not reported a significant relationship between smartphone use and physical activity when using self-reported survey instruments. This difference highlights the need for additional research employing objective measures when assessing relationships between smartphone use and health behaviors.

This study aimed to understand determinants of recalled in-task affective valence experienced during a regularly performed aerobic bout in adult exercisers aged 55+. Qualitative data were collected (January to March, 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic) using interviews wherein individuals (N = 16, 69% women, 61 ± 5 years) recalled deviations in affective valence in response to a regularly completed bout. Using thematic analyses, two themes emerged regarding how COVID-19 impacted regular exercise behaviors: (a) “loss” and (b) “adaptation.” Two themes encompassed the determinants of recalled in-task affective valence: (a) “person-specific conditions” and (b) “external conditions.” Finally, an increase in duration/intensity during a pleasant session was indicated by 44% of the participants, while 75% indicated a decrease in duration/intensity during an unpleasant session. The participants indicated that affective valence was determined by previously cited and novel factors that relate to exercise performed in naturalistic environments. Volitional modifications to planned exercise volume appear more responsive to feelings of displeasure.

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