Consumers' continuance intention to use fitness and health apps: an integration of the expectation-confirmation model and investment model

Purpose This study aimed to explore consumers' continuance intention to use a fitness and health app by applying two theoretical models: the expectation-confirmation model (ECM) and the investment model (IM). Design/methodology/approach An online survey was administered to consumers who are currently using fitness and health apps (N = 342). Structural equation modeling (SEM) was conducted using Amos 22.0 software to examine the hypothesized relationships in the research model. Findings Results revealed that users' continuance intention was significantly predicted by the two models. Within the ECM, the positive and significant relationships among variables were found. Moreover, users' satisfaction and investment size had positive impacts on their commitment, which, in turn, positively affected the intention. Also, confirmation of expectations had a positive impact on investment size. Originality/value The integrated model helps better understand fitness and health app users' decision-making process from the perspective of relationship commitment and suggests practical implications for health and fitness app providers.

Automated summary

The study revealed that users' continuance intention was significantly predicted by the expectation-confirmation model (ECM) and the investment model (IM). The positive relationships among variables were found within the ECM, and users' satisfaction and investment size had positive impacts on their commitment and intention. Confirmation of expectations also had a positive impact on investment size.