Systematic evaluation of mobile fitness apps: Apps as the Tutor, Recorder, Game Companion, and Cheerleader

Mobile fitness applications are innovating the ways in which smartphone users self-manage their health. Prior research found that app functions may impact app efficacy. However, research to date has not sought to systematically investigate how different combinations of app functions impact user response to apps, especially adoption intent. This article describes two studies on mobile fitness app characteristics and user attitudes. Study One used content analysis and hierarchical cluster analysis on 98 iPhone fitness apps and identified four app clusters: Tutor, Recorder, Game Companion, and Cheerleader. Tracking was the predominant function in current market, but tracking-focused Recorder apps received lowest user ratings among all app clusters. Users favored Tutor apps that combine exercise education and tracking, and Game Companion apps that combine gamification, tracking, and social functions. Function combinations, rather than standalone functions, impact app success. Following a Reasoned Action Approach, Study Two found various effects of individual differences (age, gender, BMI, eHealth literacy, smartphone experience, function preference) on user attitude toward different fitness app types. A comparison between two studies demonstrated a mismatch between market offerings and user needs regarding app functions. Implications of results for mobile fitness app design to improve consumer health and for theories are discussed.

Automated summary

Mobile fitness applications are changing the way smartphone users manage their health, with different combinations of app functions impacting user response. Function combinations, such as exercise education with tracking or gamification with tracking and social functions, play a key role in app success. Individual differences, such as age, gender, and eHealth literacy, also affect user attitudes towards different types of fitness apps.