Does technology assist physical activity engagement in adolescent girls and young women? Repeated cross-sectional analysis

Young women 13-24-years-old have some of the lowest levels of physical activity (PA). This repeated cross-sectional study investigated the association and potential frequency association between technology-supported PA (interactive technology that encourages PA) and young women's PA. Online self-report data was collected at: T1) May 2020, n = 900, T2) August 2020, n = 432, COVID-19 restrictions, T3) May 2021, n = 206, easing restrictions and T4) May 2022, n = 203 post-restrictions. Variables included use (yes/no) and frequency (sessions/week) of technology-supported PA and days meeting PA guidelines (≥60 minutes, <18-years) (≥30 minutes, ≥18-years). Adjusted Poisson models (whole sample, <18-years and ≥18-years) compared users and non-users. Users met PA guidelines on more days; T1 (IRR 1.36 [95%CI: 1.22-1.53]; p < 0.001), T2 (IRR 1.54 [95%CI: 1.28-1.85]; p < 0.001), T3 (IRR 1.26 [95%CI: 1.01-1.58]; p = 0.043), T4 (IRR 1.33 [95%CI: 1.00-1.77]; p = 0.048). Similar trends were reported for both subgroups at T1 and T2 but not T3 and T4. A potential frequency association was reported; T1 (IRR 1.07 [95%CI: 1.05-1.10]; p < 0.001), T2 (IRR 1.07 [95%CI: 1.05-1.10]; p < 0.001), T3 (IRR 1.09 [95%CI: 1.05-1.13]; p < 0.001), T4 (IRR 1.07 [95%CI: 1.0 1-1.14]; p = 0.027). Technology-supported PA was associated with greater PA guideline adherence during and post-COVID-19. Non-pandemic exploration could shape future research utilising technology-supported PA in interventions for young women.