Overall approach to physical activity (before the study)
The participants had different experiences and approaches to PA prior to the study. Some participants were used to exercise before (e.g., in their youth), but their PA level had decreased or completely stopped in their adult life, and they stated that they wanted to start doing PA again. Others considered themselves as physically active to some degree, such as going to work, walking with their dog, or hiking from time to time, but wanted to get in better shape by doing more regular exercise. Fewer participants had never or rarely been physically active before and wanted to start with participating in the ONWARDS study.I used to be active earlier, but after having kids it has been difficult. I have always been exercising and enjoy it (ID 10).Reasons for not being active were lack of motivation, lack of time, bad weather conditions, or restrictions during the pandemic. Others did not like to exercise. The lack of ability to plan and incorporate PA into the everyday life was also highlighted as a reason for not performing PA.The participants had different views on how to increase their level of PA. While some just wanted to increase their number of daily steps, others wanted to perform regular training sessions (e.g., running, skiing, strength) several times a week. Many saw the ONWARDS study as an opportunity and motivation to be more active, exercise regularly, increase their fitness level and gain overview and control of their PA level.I do not like to be physically active; it is not integrated in my everyday life although I know it is important (…). So, I thought “why not”? Maybe participating in this project can help me to get a kick-start (ID 11).Social support from family, friends, or colleagues to be physically active varied between the participants. While it was perceived as important for some, others did not experience any need for social support. Some had previous experience with wearable devices for PA (e.g., sport watches measuring heart rate, number of steps, sleep quality) or applications (e.g., for weight control), but none had used PAI or monitored their level of PA over a long period of time.