Physical activity levels increased by smartphone apps and fitness trackers

New research finds activity trackers and mobile apps currently being used by consumers are effective in improving physical activity, with an average increase of around 2000 steps per day. This has the potential to lower the risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and some types of cancer.

I love that my Apple Watch reminds me to stand every hour helping me in the battle against sedentary lifestyle inaction.

New research from the University of Sydney has found that using smartphone applications and activity trackers increases physical activity levels in adults without chronic disease.

Published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, the study found that interventions involving smartphone apps and activity trackers increased participants’ physical activity by an average of 2000 steps per day, which is a level found to be associated with health benefits, such as lower risk for premature death.

This is the first analysis to summarize published randomized, controlled trials assessing the effect of current mobile applications and activity trackers on physical activity, in adults aged 18-65 years without chronic illness.