Design and evaluation of persuasive strategies for promoting physical activity in wearable systems

INTRODUCTION: Persuasive technology offers a technological approach to promote physical activity. OBJECTIVES: This study aims to design and evaluate user perceptions of various persuasive strategies in a wearable system. METHODS: Six persuasive strategies were implemented in a wearable system comprising a sensing strap, an Android application, and a data server. A pilot user study assessed perceived persuasive efficacy via post-study questionnaires and diaries. RESULTS: The findings indicated that social influence, goal setting, and reinforcement significantly correlated with persuasive efficacy; personal awareness, enjoyment interaction, and suggestion and reminders did not. All six strategies significantly increased sustained usage intention. CONCLUSION: A multi-strategy persuasive wearable system can enhance sustained usage intention and exercise motivation, with complementary roles of different strategies, demonstrating its potential for health behavior interventions.