I wear a Fitbit™ therefore I am a Bitfit: Exploring the impact of a Fitbit™ device on exercise and work-related wellbeing

Abstract

Workplace wellbeing initiatives supporting mental health, often utilise wearable activity trackers to promote physical activity. However, evidence regarding their efficacy is limited. The current study explored the potential for a FitbitTM to increase engagement in exercise, and to moderate the effect of exercise on work-related wellbeing in full-time workers. Participants recorded their work-related wellbeing and physical activity for two consecutive weeks, one wearing a FitbitTM. Results indicated that participants engaged in fewer minutes of exercise when wearing a FitbitTM, and that exercise alone was not associated with better work-related wellbeing. Participants were more frustrated when they exercised but were not wearing a FitbitTM. Participants also reported greater temporal demand when wearing a FitbitTM, which was exacerbated when not engaging in exercise. However, FitbitTM wear was also associated with greater work-related satisfaction, regardless of whether they had engaged in exercise that day. Our findings imply that wearing a FitbitTM can moderate the impact of exercise on work-related wellbeing, suggesting that it is not the activity tracker or exercise alone, but the interaction between the two which is key. The potential for wearable trackers to be effective in improving health and wellbeing is more complex than previously anticipated and warrants further investigation.