Fitness apps, a Valid Alternative to the Gym: a pilot study

Abstract

Background: Physical activity is an integral part of a healthy lifestyle. There are multiple barriers to exercise in the modern world. This combined with poor dietary behavior is a principle driver of obesity. Given the prevalence of mobile technology, especially among young adults, public health initiatives utilising fitness applications on smartphones offer an exciting new frontier in tackling this problem. However, there is a lack of evidence regarding the effectiveness of this mobile technology as a substitute to other exercise modalities. Methods: In this pilot study, a search was performed using the Apple 4S smartphone’s ‘‘App Store’’ for relevant fitness applications (‘apps’). Three apps were found to fulfill the inclusion and exclusion criteria of the study: Nike Training Club, Instant Fitness and Gorilla Workout Free. Exercise was then performed as per each app’s guidance, and caloric expenditure was measured using a validated device. This caloric expenditure was then compared with the control exercises, which included slowspeed jogging, WiiFit Plus exercises, and RPM, an indoor gym cycling program. One subject performed three trials of each exercise modality. Results: Jogging was the best form of exercise in regards to caloric expenditure (mean 7.9 calories/ min), and was superior to all other groups. Nike Training Club was superior to Gorilla Workout Free app, however, there were no other significant differences between the apps. Nike Training Club and Instant Fitness apps were as effective as RPM and WiiFit Plus groups. Conclusion: This pilot study showed that fitness apps are as effective as a gym cycling group class with regards to caloric expenditure per unit of time. They offer a new paradigm for exercise for individuals with barriers to participating in organised fitness activity. Smartphone technology has the potential to be utilised as a new tool for public health initiatives to tackle the growing obesity epidemic.