Comparisons of physical activity and sedentary behavior between owners and non-owners of commercial wearable devices

Abstract

Aims: Wearable devices are a new strategy for promoting physical activity in a free-living condition that utilizes self-monitoring, self-awareness, and self-determination. The main purpose of this study was to explore health benefits of commercial wearable devices by comparing physical activity, sedentary time, sleep quality, and other health outcomes between individuals who used and those that did not use commercial wearable devices. Methods: The research design was a cross-sectional study using an Internet survey in Taiwan. Self-administered questionnaires included the International Physical Activity Questionnaire–Short Form, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Health-Promoting Lifestyle Profile, and World Health Organization Quality-of-Life Scale. Results: In total, 781 participants were recruited, including 50% who were users of wearable devices and 50% non-users in the most recent 3 months. Primary outcomes revealed that wearable device users had significantly higher self-reported walking, moderate physical activity, and total physical activity, and significantly lower sedentary time than non-users. Wearable device users had significantly better sleep quality than non-users. Conclusion: Wearable devices inspire users’ motivation, engagement, and interest in physical activity through habit formation. Wearable devices are recommended to increase physical activity and decrease sedentary behavior for promoting good health.

Effectiveness of an 8-Week Physical Activity Intervention Involving Wearable Activity Trackers and an eHealth App: Mixed Methods Study

“…Moreover, reductions in weight and lipid profiles, and perceived increases in well-being have been found among older adults with chronic medical conditions after 12 weeks of receiving a free wearable tracker [ 64 ]. Our results are also supported by findings elsewhere suggesting that in addition to higher physical activity (MPA, walking, and total physical activity) and less sedentary time, current users of commercially available wearable trackers report better sleep quality and quality of life than nonusers [ 65 ]. Interventions involving wearable and eHealth technology should consider measuring a range of physical and mental health outcomes, in addition to physical activity and sedentary behavior, to better understand the potential effects on overall health and well-being.…”

Age Unplugged: A Brief Narrative Review on the Intersection of Digital Tools, Sedentary and Physical Activity Behaviors in Community-Dwelling Older Adults

“…These devices, which include fitness trackers and smartwatches, are at the vanguard of this movement. They are equipped with sophisticated features that promote self-monitoring, improve self-awareness and increase motivation, empowering individuals to actively monitor their health [22,23]. This aspect is particularly important considering that ingrained habits and lack of motivation are common triggers for SB, while increased awareness of SB and a sense of personal responsibility act as motivators for exercise [6].…”

The burden of prolonged sedentary behavior imposed by uberization

“…Another suggestion is the use of commercial wearable devices that have been shown to increase physical activity levels and decrease sedentary time. 72 These devices can be programmed to remind the user to take a break from sitting. 73 Indeed, reallocating sedentary time for standing, light stepping, or moderate-to-vigorous stepping is beneficial for cardiovascular risk and body composition.…”