Use of the Fitbit to Measure Adherence to a Physical Activity Intervention Among Overweight or Obese, Postmenopausal Women: Self-Monitoring Trajectory During 16 Weeks

This study explores the use of direct-to-consumer activity trackers (ie Fitbit) to aid self-monitoring and goal setting with the aim of to increasing physical activity among 25 postmenopausal women. The participants were tasked with achieving 150 minutes of activity per week as well as a daily goal of 10000 steps. The results were largely positive, with physical activity rates increasing and the Fitbit being used on 95% of intervention days. Barriers to technology were reduced as program coordinators inducted women onto the software and helped participants set original goals as well as refine goals after a 4 week period. Conclusively, this study provides evidence that the Fitbit is a useful tool to aid behaviour change and adherence to physical activity.