Effects of mHealth interventions to prescribe resistance training: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

This review evaluated the efficacy of resistance training mHealth interventions for improving neuromuscular fitness and resistance training participation. It also explored how resistance training is prescribed through mHealth, and the theoretical frameworks and behavior change techniques (BCTs) employed. MEDLINE (OVID), Embase (OVID), Emcare (OVID), SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, Scopus and Cochrane (CINAHL) were searched from January 2010 to February 2025. Randomized controlled trials published in English, targeting adults, that prescribed resistance training via an mHealth platform and measured at least one outcome of neuromuscular fitness or resistance training participation were included. From the 12,059 records identified, 32 RCTs were included. mHealth-delivered resistance training interventions produced a small, statistically significant improvement in neuromuscular fitness compared with no intervention/usual care (Cohen’s d = 0.18, 95% CI [0.08, 0.28], p < .001, 18 studies). There was a significant, moderate effect for lower body neuromuscular fitness outcomes, but no significant effect for upper body outcomes. Only two studies measured changes to resistance training participation, precluding meta-analysis on this outcome. Studies targeted mostly clinical populations and used mobile applications or websites. Majority of studies included bodyweight exercises, prescribed via videos or pictures, along with text description. Exercise prescription was generally poorly reported across studies. Only 7 studies used a theoretical framework to inform their intervention. All studies incorporated BCTs (17 discrete BCTs used), with a focus on providing instruction and demonstrating behavior. mHealth is a potentially scalable, effective method of prescribing resistance training. Better reporting of exercise prescription, along with clearer grounding in established theoretical frameworks, is recommended. The review was prospectively registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO; registration number CRD42025641142).