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Abstract
PURPOSE: An increasingly common mode of daily exercise is the use of exercise apps via smartphone, but few studies have examined how these apps might help to promote physical activity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate written descriptions of free aerobic exercise apps and the potential for promoting physical activity. METHODS: In February 2013, study investigators identified 63 free exercise apps on iTunes that included aerobic exercise. Written descriptions posted by the app developers were evaluated by two investigators using the enabling and reinforcing components of the Precede-Proceed health promotion model as a guide. Six factors (three enabling and three reinforcing) were evaluated by the investigators. One point was recorded for each of the factors incorporated into a particular app. Total points were determined and average scores are presented as means±SD. RESULTS: Out of the 63 apps, 19 included only aerobic exercise and 44 included a variety of exercise routines, including aerobic exercise. Enabling scores ranged from 0 to 3, with an average score of 1.8±0.9. Fifty (79.4 %) apps included videos or pictures, while 44 apps (69.8 %) included written instructions on how to perform exercises. Twenty-two (34.9 %) apps included the ability to track daily exercise. Reinforcing scores ranged from 0 to 3, with an average score of 0.7±0.8. Twenty-five (39.7 %) apps interfaced with a social networking site, while 15 (23.8 %) included rewards for daily exercise. Only 6 (9.5 %) provided feedback and support from a personal trainer or other individuals following adoption of an exercise program. Total scores ranged from 0 to 5, with an average of 2.5±1.1. None of the apps included all 6 factors. CONCLUSION: It will be important for exercise professionals to collaborate with app developers, so new exercise apps include ways to encourage and reinforce daily exercise. Additional research is needed on how exercise apps can be used to promote physical activity.
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