Can activity trackers or other apps get us moving? Study reveals the benefits of remote technology, particularly in rehabilitation
The dissertation is part of two larger research projects funded by KELA and led by docent Tuulikki Sjögren, and it focuses on the use of remote technology specifically in cardiac rehabilitation.
Remote technology is particularly effective in rehabilitation settings
The study revealed that physical activity interventions delivered through remote technology were as effective as those carried out in person or using written materials. Furthermore, remote technology provided added value in the rehabilitation of various diseases, increasing physical activity by 25% more than traditional methods.
In cardiac rehabilitation, the use of remote technology showed promising results. In a randomized controlled trial, it was found that using remote technology in self-rehabilitation added value, increasing light physical activity by an average of 5.4 hours per week during the first six months compared to the control group. However, there were no differences between the experimental and control groups in terms of moderate or vigorous physical activity.
“In the case of a rehabilitation group, whose physical activity is typically lower due to fears related to movement and challenges with functional capacity, even a small increase in activity can promote health.”
When examining the technology acceptance among cardiac rehabilitation patients, activity trackers and internet-based coaching programs were considered useful and easy to use.
Sanna Säteri will defend her doctoral dissertation in physiotherapy, The promotion of physical activity with remote technology, with a special focus on cardiac rehabilitation, at the Ģֱ on 31 January 2025 starting at 12:00 in the Liikunta building, auditorium L304. Her opponent will be Professor Maria Bäck (Linköping University) and the custos will be Docent Tuulikki Sjögren (Ģֱ). The language of the defence is English.
The dissertation is available in JYX, the Jyväskylä University Digital Repository.
Further information:
Sanna Säteri, MSc
Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Ģֱ
sannasateri@gmail.com, tel.: +358 44 023 0785
