Evaluation of App-only Users Compared With Wearable Band + App Users With Regard to Weight Management and Program Engagement on the BetterMe Platform
BetterMe Limited
Summary
This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a mobile wellness application, both alone and in combination with a wearable fitness tracker, for supporting weight management, physical activity, and mental well-being. Adults with a body mass index (BMI) ≥25 will be randomized to one of three groups: (1) mobile wellness application + wearable tracker, (2) mobile wellness application only, or (3) control receiving standard health information. Participants will use the interventions over a 12-week period, and outcomes including weight change, activity levels, and self-reported mental health will be assessed.
Description
Obesity is a growing public health concern worldwide, contributing to chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and mental health challenges. Digital wellness interventions, including mobile apps and wearable devices, have the potential to support behavior change, physical activity, and weight management. This study will examine whether adding a wearable fitness tracker to a mobile wellness application enhances health outcomes compared with app-only use or standard health information. The trial is decentralized, conducted remotely, and does not require in-person visi…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18+ years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: * Age: 18+ years * A baseline BMI ≥ 25 * Willing to use the BetterMe mobile wellness app and fitness tracker for the entirety of the study * Ownership of a smartphone * Currently inactive, as defined by acknowledging "several times a month" or "never" to the exercise frequency question in the screener * Acknowledging "I believe I can do it" or "I'm uncertain, but willing to try" to the confidence to succeed question in the screener * Willingness to use scales for body weighing and submit video recording Exclusion Criteria: * A baseline BMI \< 25 * Pregnant or planning to…
Interventions
- BehavioralApp + Fitness Tracker
Participants will use a commercially available mobile wellness app alongside a wearable fitness tracker. The app provides personalized exercise programs, habit tracking, progress monitoring, and motivational support. The wearable collects daily steps, heart rate, heart rate variability, and sleep metrics to enhance personalized feedback. Participants are encouraged to engage with both tools daily over a 12-week period to support weight management, physical activity, and overall well-being.
- BehavioralApp Only
Participants will use the same mobile wellness app without the wearable fitness tracker. The app delivers personalized exercise programs, habit tracking, progress monitoring, and motivational support. Participants are encouraged to use the app daily over 12 weeks to support weight management, physical activity, and overall well-being.
- BehavioralControl Group
Participants will continue their usual health and exercise routines without access to the app or wearable tracker. They will receive standard wellness information via email or blog posts over the 12-week study period. This group serves as a comparison to evaluate the effects of the interventions on weight management, physical activity, and well-being.
Location
- Sterling Institutional Review Board - Remote/Virtual Participation OnlyAtlanta, Georgia