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PREVALENCE AND USE OF FITNESS TRACKING DEVICES WITHIN A COLLEGE COMMUNITY

Abstract

PURPOSE: Wearable devices for tracking health and fitness related activities are thought to motivate individuals to participate in regular exercise. While there are many reports regarding the reliability and validity of fitness tracking devices, the prevalence and usage is not typically reported, particularly in college communities. The purpose of this study was to examine the frequency of these wearable fitness tracking devices in a college setting. METHODS: Students, faculty, administration, and staff of Linfield College were asked to complete a survey that examined the types of fitness tracking devices owned, frequency of use, and application of the device. RESULTS: Of 217 participants surveyed (67 males, 150 females), 29.49% own a fitness tracker, with the most common types being a phone app (46.2% of faculty, staff, and administration) and a specific wearable wrist device (44.7% of students). Step count tracking was the most popularly used feature among all participants (86.8% of students and 96.2% of faculty, staff, and administration). 84% of all participants reported that the device encouraged their participation in physical activity. For those not owning a device (70.51% of participants), lack of interest was the most prevalent reason reported against purchasing a device, followed by expense. CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that only a small percentage of individuals across a college community own these fitness tracking devices, despite the fact that they are perceived to encourage physical activity.

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