Technology-Based Physical Activity Self-Monitoring Among College Students

Understanding the relationship between college students’ physical activity (PA) self-monitoring and PA levels has the potential to inform initiatives to promote PA. This study’s purpose was to examine the prevalence of technology-based self-monitoring among college students the potential relationship between device usage, goal setting behaviors, PA enjoyment, and PA levels. An online survey assessed students’ demographics, current PA level, technology-based PA self-monitoring, and psychosocial outcomes. Independent t-tests examined differences in PA level and psychosocial outcomes by device use. 55.5% of the final sample (N=1,154) reported technology-based self-monitoring. Mobile phone app-based PA tracking was the most commonly reported (29.9%), followed by heart rate monitors (23.1%). Device use was significantly related to vigorous PA and psychosocial outcomes. Findings have the potential to inform development of technology-based interventions that promote student PA.