Effects of a Smartphone-Supported Daily Walking Intervention on Psychological Well-Being and Body Composition in Adults With Cardiometabolic Disease

Psychological Benefits of Increased Daily Walking Precede Meaningful Changes in BodyComposition in Adults With Cardiometabolic Disease

This study evaluated whether a three-month smartphone-supported daily walking intervention could improve physical activity, psychological well-being, and body composition in adults with cardiometabolic disease. Participants had cardiovascular disease and/or type 2 diabetes and used the Walk15 smartphone platform to monitor daily step count. The intervention aimed to increase daily walking by approximately 1,000 steps per day through individualized step goals, self-monitoring, and digital feedback. Outcomes were assessed before and after the intervention and included daily step count, body composition, handgrip strength, sleep duration, eating behaviors, subjective well-being, vigor, stress, anxiety, health, and happiness.

This was a three-month quasi-experimental longitudinal study in adults aged 20 to 65 years with physician-confirmed cardiovascular disease and/or type 2 diabetes mellitus. The intervention was delivered through the Walk15 smartphone platform. Participants received individualized step goals based on baseline activity levels and were encouraged to increase daily walking gradually, aiming for approximately 1,000 additional steps per day. Daily step counts were monitored through smartphone-connected wearable devices and synchronized with the Walk15 platform. No dietary modifications, weight-loss program, or structured exercise training were prescribed. The study assessed changes in physical activity, psychological well-being, lifestyle behaviors, muscle strength, and body composition from baseline to the end of the three-month intervention.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults aged 20 to 65 years Physician-confirmed diagnosis of cardiovascular disease and/or type 2 diabetes mellitus verified through medical records Medical clearance from the treating physician confirming that participation in a walking-based physical activity program was safe and appropriate Ability to use the Walk15 smartphone platform or smartphone-connected wearable device for step-count monitoring Written informed consent provided before enrollment

Exclusion Criteria:

• Severe mobility limitations Acute medical conditions Psychiatric disorders requiring pharmacological treatment Inability to complete baseline or post-intervention assessments