Use of Consumer Wearable Devices to Promote Physical Activity: A Review of Health Intervention Studies

Abstract

Background: Although many wearable devices for monitoring and tracking physical activity are available to consumers, relatively few research studies have been conducted to determine their efficacy in promoting health.

Methods: In this article, data on the use of consumer wearable devices in promoting healthy behaviors are summarized based upon bibliographic searches in PubMed and Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection with relevant search terms through September 2016.

Results: A total of 274 articles were identified in the bibliographic searches. By screening abstracts or full-text articles, six pre/post test trials and seven randomized controlled trials were identified. In initial trials, consumer wearable devices have been shown to increase physical activity and help users lose weight. However, the number of studies completed to date is small and limited by small sample sizes, short study durations, and uncertain generalizability of the findings.

Conclusions: Future studies should utilize randomized controlled trial research designs, larger sample sizes, and longer study periods to better establish the efficacy of wearable devices in promoting physical activity. Additional research is needed to determine the feasibility and effectiveness of wearable devices in promoting physical activity and weight loss in community settings including communities affected by health disparities. Studies focusing on children and adolescents are also needed.

Keywords: Monitoring; Obesity; Physical activity; Randomized controlled trials; Smartphone applications; Weight loss.

Figure 1

Summary of search and exclusion process: (physical activity and ((Fitbit) or ((Jawbone) and (tracking)) or wearable device)). (physical activity) AND (((fitbit) OR ((jawbone) and (tracking)) OR (wearable device))).