Efficacy of Mobile Applications and Face-to-Face Social Interaction on Physical Activity, Motivation and Self-Efficacy in Insufficiently Active College Students

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the efficacy of mobile app-based intervention and face-to-face social interaction on physical activity and psychological outcomes in insufficiently active college students. Fourteen college students (Mage= 19.9, SD=1.1; 9 females) participated in a 4-week intervention using Samsung Health and Snapchat mobile applications, along with weekly in-person group meetings. Step counts were measured using Tri-Axis Pedometer (OMRON HJ-303), while exercise motivation and self-efficacy were assessed using Exercise Self-Regulation Questionnaire (SRQ-E) and 12-item abbreviated version of the Self-Efficacy for Exercise Habit Survey. Paired t-tests compared pre- and post- intervention outcomes. Results indicated significant improvements in introjected regulation, identified regulation, intrinsic motivation, and exercise self-efficacy. Average daily step counts increased from 5,839 to 6,610 steps, although this change was not statistically significant. These findings suggest that integrating mobile health apps with peer social support is feasible and may enhance exercise motivation and self-efficacy in insufficiently active college students. Fitness and health professionals may consider leveraging integrated online and offline interventions to optimize physical activity outcomes.