Weekly versus daily adaptive goal setting to improve physical activity: A single case experiment

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of adaptive goal-setting approaches using Fitbit devices, specifically comparing weekly and daily adaptive step goals. Conducted over six weeks with a single-case experiment design, the study used a 60th percentile schedule to calculate step goals and employed hierarchical piecewise linear regression for analysis. Results showed that while baseline steps declined, both weekly and daily goals led to an increase in steps. The daily goals had a significant positive slope effect (p=0.037), unlike the non-significant effects observed with weekly goals. Participant feedback collected via questionnaires, aligned with these findings, revealing a preference for daily goals due to their motivational frequency and flexibility. 80% of participants preferred daily goals over weekly goals. The study concluded that daily step goals provided consistent motivation and immediate feedback, which were effective in maintaining physical activity levels. The regression coefficients support this finding, seeing a higher step increase in the daily goals, compared to the weekly goals.