Does a step-log app keep people tracking activity?
In 10,000 Steps members, a smartphone iStepLog app preserved daily logging and high step counts versus matched controls whose logging fell.
Source
Using smartphone technology to monitor physical activity in the 10,000 Steps program: a matched case-control trial
Study at a glance
- Design
- Case-control — Matched case–control of iStepLog users vs similar 10,000 Steps members (not randomised)
- N
- N=50 · 50 app users matched to 150 controls (1:3); 48% women in each group
- Population
- Engaged 10,000 Steps members with iPhone/iPod access
- Outcome
- Daily step-logging frequency and logging >10,000 steps
Structured fields used in claim comparison tables when every cited study has a complete layer.
What they did
Intervention participants using iStepLog were matched to similar 10,000 Steps members; researchers compared logging frequency and steps before and during the intervention period.
What they found
App users maintained logging (~61–62 days) while matched controls declined (61 to 41). App use linked to higher odds of daily logging (OR 3.56) and of logging >10,000 steps (OR 20.64).
The limits
What it doesn't show
Matched design is not a randomized test of clinical outcomes like weight or CVD events.
Key terms
- 10,000 Steps
- Australian online physical-activity promotion program.
- iStepLog
- Smartphone application for logging steps in the program.
- Matched case–control
- Comparing app users to similar non-app members on key covariates.
- Self-monitoring
- Tracking one’s behaviour—here steps—to support activity habits.
- Physical activity logging
- Recording daily steps or activity as engagement with the program.
Flashcards
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iStepLog was tested within:
Common questions
What program was studied?
Australia’s 10,000 Steps program.
What did controls do?
Logging frequency and steps fell during the study period.
Daily logging OR?
About 3.56 favouring app users.
High step-count OR?
About 20.64 for logging >10,000 steps.
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