Feasibility of a real-time self-monitoring device for sitting less and moving more: a randomised controlled trial

Objectives: Time spent inactive and sedentary are both associated with poor health. Self-monitoring of walking, using pedometers for real-time feedback, is effective at increasing physical activity. This study evaluated the feasibility of a new pocket-worn sedentary time and physical activity real-time self-monitoring device (SitFIT™).
Methods: Forty sedentary men were equally randomized into two intervention groups. For four weeks, one group received a SitFIT™ providing feedback on steps and time spent sedentary (lying/sitting); the other group received a SitFIT™ providing feedback on steps and time spent upright (standing/stepping). Change in sedentary time, standing time, stepping time and step count was assessed using activPAL™ monitors at baseline, and 4-week (T1) and 12-week (T2) follow-up. Semi-structured interviews were conducted after 4 and 12 weeks.
Results: The SitFIT™ was reported as acceptable and usable, and seen as a motivating tool to reduce sedentary time by both groups. On average, participants reduced their sedentary time by 7.8 minutes/day (95%CI -55.4, 39.7) (T1) and by 8.2 minutes/day (95%CI -60.1, 44.3) (T2). They increased standing time by 23.2 minutes/day (95%CI 4.0, 42.5) (T1) and 16.2 minutes/day (95%CI -13.9, 46.2) (T2). Stepping time was increased by 8.5 minutes/day (95%CI 0.9, 16.0) (T1) and 9.0 minutes/day (95%CI 0.5, 17.5) (T2). There were no between-group differences at either follow-up time points.
Conclusion: The SitFIT™ was perceived as a useful tool for self-monitoring of sedentary time. It has potential as a real-time self-monitoring device to reduce sedentary and increase upright time.