Differences in user attention to interface information of smart fitness applications under certain exercise contexts

Abstract

By integrating technological advancements into home-based fitness environments, smart fitness applications have increasingly become an integral part of daily exercise routines. A key challenge in their design lies in presenting information that aligns with users’ cognitive and perceptual needs, especially during self-directed exercise. This study explores how exercise experience and intensity influence users’ attention to interface information in smart fitness applications. Using a within-subjects mixed factorial design (3 Levels of Exercise Intensity × 2 Levels of Exercise Experience), we conducted a 40-second wall sit experiment with 32 valid participants, employing eye-tracking technology to measure fixation duration as an indicator of visual attention. The results reveal that experienced users exhibit significantly greater attention to physical data, while inexperienced users focus more on atmosphere-related information. In low-intensity exercise, inexperienced users allocate more attention to achievement-related information, though no significant difference in attention to exercise information is observed between the two groups. Additionally, high-intensity exercise leads to increased attention to atmosphere-related information, particularly among inexperienced users. These findings provide empirical support for interface design strategies in smart fitness applications and contribute to the advancement of public health.