Wearable Computing for Health and Fitness: Exploring the Relationship between Data and Human Behaviour

TL;DR

This paper examines how wearable health and fitness devices influence human behavior, comparing motivational and reflective data use, and suggests future research directions for long-term engagement and behavior change.

Contribution

It introduces a new approach where wearable data supports reflection rather than motivation, addressing long-term engagement issues and proposing future research pathways.

Findings

Self-generated data can motivate behavior change.

Reflective data use may enhance long-term engagement.

Recommendations for future wearable technology research.

Abstract

Health and fitness wearable technology has recently advanced, making it easier for an individual to monitor their behaviours. Previously self generated data interacts with the user to motivate positive behaviour change, but issues arise when relating this to long term mention of wearable devices. Previous studies within this area are discussed. We also consider a new approach where data is used to support instead of motivate, through monitoring and logging to encourage reflection. Based on issues highlighted, we then make recommendations on the direction in which future work could be most beneficial.