A User-Centered Mobile Interface Design, Promoting Physical Activity in the Covid 19 Pandemic’s Sedentary Lifestyle

Alizadeh Elizei, Z.

The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has become a global public health threat [1]. As the number of Covid 19 cases have been increasing worldwide, the governments have tried to control the disease by enforcing severe measures such as the closure of schools, and recreational centers. Under this necessary self-isolating conditions, many people have faced unhealthy behaviors, such as sedentary lifestyle. Physical inactivity raises the risk of many chronic diseases namely coronary heart disease, diabetes, depression, and stroke. Mobile applications as the most engaging medium of interaction can be used to promote physical activity through this condition. The purpose of this research is to design a health and running app based on user-centered research. A systematic review of the functional features of the related “Health & Running” mobile apps is conducted in the first phase. The user-centered research investigating the needs assessment is carried out through the user survey, and focus group. Behavioral Change Techniques (BCTs) and gamification are elements added into design to enhance the efficiency of the app. Passive and active notifications, training screens, goal setting, and action planning are BCT components incorporated into the design. The app would provide the users with active interventions and customizable features in order to help them stay motivated and follow the app. The model-driven development of the user interface from the storyboards to high-fidelity prototypes are produced to create a better perception of the design. © 2021, Springer Nature Switzerland AG.