Pedometers, the frustrating motivators: a qualitative investigation of users’ experiences of the Yamax SW-200 among people with multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Purpose

Self-monitoring may represent a mechanism to enhance physical activity among people with multiple sclerosis. To optimise activity monitoring as a behavioural tool to increase physical activity, user experience must be understood. This study evaluated user experience of the Yamax SW-200 Digi-walker pedometer in a group of people with MS.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 adults who participated in a 12-week pedometer-supported behavioural change intervention, the iStep-MS trial. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed using the Framework Method.

Results

An overarching theme Pedometers, the frustrating motivators captures the complex and often contradictory experience of the pedometer. Sub-themes include: Increasing activity awareness, which describes the pedometer’s utility in raising activity consciousness; Numeric motivation provides insight into dual motivating and demotivating experiences of using an objective feedback device; (Un) usability focuses on practical concerns encountered in the day-to-day use of the monitor.

Conclusion

The Yamax SW-200 Digi-walker raised awareness and enhanced participant motivation to engage in physical activity. Accuracy and usability concerns highlighted warrant consideration in the selection of this pedometer within a population with multiple sclerosis.

Trial registration

Changing physical activity behaviour in people with MS: the iStep-MS trial; ISRCTN15343862; https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN15343862

Implications for rehabilitation

• Use of self-monitoring tools such as pedometers can enhance physical activity awareness.

• Objective, numeric step count feedback is an effective motivational tool for physical activity.

• Accuracy and usability concerns may limit the value of the Yamax SW-200 Digiwalker for people with MS.

• Identification of individualised, reliable, usable and acceptable tools is important to ensure engagement with self-monitoring.

Keywords:

• Multiple sclerosis
• pedometer
• activity monitoring
• qualitative
• physical activity
• step count
• behaviour change

Disclosure statement

The authors report no conflicts of interest.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by a project grant from the MS Society UK.