The International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity · 4 authors, 2 centres
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Behaviour change techniques clustered around four themes—logging and monitoring, reminders and prompts, workout videos and instructions, and social features—with social support and social norms about women's appearance influencing experiences.
Thirty-two young women aged 18–24 were recruited online and randomly assigned to use either FitOn or Map My Fitness for two weeks to achieve a personal physical activity goal. Using photovoice methodology, participants generated 134 photographs and participated in semi-structured interviews, which were analyzed using thematic analysis. Four key themes emerged around behaviour change techniques: logging and monitoring physical activity, reminders and prompts, workout videos and written instructions, and social features. Self-monitoring appeared to positively impact goal setting and feelings of competence, with some participants reporting increased capability and higher goals. Conversely, indicators relating to physical appearance were described as triggering, while workout videos positively impacted competence for some participants but were intimidating when trainers seemed unrelatable. Results suggest behaviour change techniques may influence physical activity through pathways aligned with social cognitive and self-determination theories, and that social norms around women's appearance moderate experiences.
