Methodology
This study employed a three-phase mixed methods research design. Phase one was an experimental phase where 300 participants were randomly assigned to intervention or control groups. The intervention group received a technologically based physical activity intervention, while the control group did not. Physical activity levels and mental health outcomes were assessed before and after the intervention. Phase two involved qualitative interviews with a subset of participants (n = 20) from the intervention group. These interviews explored motivations and barriers to physical activity, aiming to uncover personal factors influencing engagement. Thematic analysis was used to identify recurring themes. Phase three utilized a quantitative survey to compare motivations and barriers between males and females. The survey, administered to a larger sample, included participants from both intervention and control groups. It assessed various factors and allowed for a quantitative comparison of gender differences.