What Motivates Users to Continue Using Diet and Fitness Apps? Application of the Uses and Gratifications Approach

ABSTRACT This study explored how the gratifications obtained from the use of diet and fitness apps may motivate users to continue their use of these apps. The effects of seven gratifications obtained were analyzed through hierarchical regression analyses. Results showed that the five gratifications of recordability, networkability, credibility, comprehensibility, and trendiness significantly predicted user intention to continue using diet/fitness apps; the hypothesized gratifications of accuracy and entertainment were not significant predictors. These findings contribute to broadening our theoretical and practical knowledge of new digital, mobile media phenomena by identifying use motivations specific to diet/fitness apps. Based on the findings, recommendations for researchers, practitioners, and developers are provided.

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