A study has discovered that gamification and financial incentives can help motivate people to improve their physical fitness, leading to better cardiovascular health. The research found that adults with heart disease were able to increase their daily step count, reducing their risk of premature and cardiovascular-related deaths.
The study, funded by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), involved participants who were given fitness trackers and placed in different groups with gaming-style incentives, financial incentives, or a combination of both. The results showed that participants increased their moderate exercise levels, reducing the risk of premature death by 6% and cardiovascular-related deaths by 10%.
Dr. Scott Doughty, a family doctor, noted that similar programs have been successful in motivating individuals to make positive lifestyle changes. The use of immediate rewards, such as financial incentives or gamification, can be effective in encouraging people to be more active.
Long-term habits are crucial for maintaining fitness goals, even after the initial incentives end. Developing intrinsic motivation and creating habits that feel necessary are key factors in sustaining long-term success in physical fitness.
Tapping Into Immediate Rewards
Dr. Doughty shared his personal experience with a virtual cycling program that uses gamification to enhance the fitness routine. The social connection and fun elements of the app have motivated him to stay active and engage with a community of cyclists.
