Exploring User-Perceived Features for Personalized Physical Activity Promotion Function in A Healthcare Application: A Qualitative Study (Preprint)

BACKGROUND Healthcare applications are widely used to support weight loss and lifestyle modification. Many of these applications offer tailored feedback on dietary intake and nutritional behavior. However, most lack personalized features that promote physical activity (PA), which is important for weight management, metabolic health, and chronic disease prevention. To enhance the effectiveness of physical activity promotion function in healthcare applications, it is essential to understand which personalized features are useful for promoting PA. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to explore the essential features perceived by users of personalized PA promotion in healthcare applications. METHODS A qualitative study was conducted using focus group interviews (FGIs) with healthcare application users. Participants were recruited regardless of age, sex, or body mass index. A thematic analysis was conducted using a combination of inductive and deductive approaches. Question 1 (“How do you perceive the importance of physical activity”) was analyzed inductively, while Questions 2 (“What are the motivating factors for engaging in physical activity?”) and 3 (“What are the barriers to engaging in physical activity?”) were analyzed deductively based on the Social Ecological Model. RESULTS Eleven participants were interviewed and were unfamiliar with the term “physical activity” but recognized the importance of movement and reducing sedentary behavior. The identified motivators included improvements in mood, changes in physical appearance, and support from family. Application features, such as goal setting, feedback, reminders, and praise, were also cited as effective motivators. The reported barriers included time restrictions due to work, fatigue, weather, remote work, and social pressure in workplace settings. Many participants emphasized the need for personalized suggestions tailored to their physical conditions, daily schedules, and weather. CONCLUSIONS Participants expressed the need for application features that provide personalized context-aware support for physical activity. Features, such as timely feedback, adaptive goals, and motivational messages based on daily conditions, may enhance engagement and address common barriers. These insights can guide the development of healthcare applications with personalized PA support functions.