Introduction: Research has shown that physical activity (PA) may be important for women’s reproductive health and could potentially help women with fertility difficulties to achieve a pregnancy. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and acceptability of an on-line physical activity program using ‘Personal Activity Intelligence’ (PAI) technology, and its potential as a motivator for increasing PA in women of childbearing age who are planning to conceive within the next 2 years.

Methods: Single-group 6-week intervention included on-line PA education sessions, a printed booklet/diary developed for the study, and a wrist-worn activity monitor (Amazfit GTS) with inbuilt PAI technology, which were delivered by mail. Women reported demographic characteristics and lifestyle behaviours (PA and sitting time), reproductive health history, weight, height, and self-rated health. Qualitative data were collected via open-ended questions in the booklet. The monitors were used to collect PAI scores, which are based on an algorithm based on age, sex, resting and maximal heart rate (HR), and HR during activities. Participants were encouraged to reach and maintain a score of 100 PAI across the 6 weeks.

Results: Twenty women (age 24-43, weight 49-101kg) completed baseline measures and 16 completed follow-up measures. PAI data were available from 14 participants and 13 reached a score of ≥100 at least once during the 6-week intervention. Nearly half the sample maintained a PAI score of ≥100 for at least 50% of the time. All agreed that they liked using the activity monitor and receiving personalised feedback via the PAI app. All reported that the PAI app was easy to use.

Conclusion: This study demonstrated that the use of PAI technology in a physical activity intervention is feasible and acceptable for women of childbearing age in the pre-conception period. The findings could inform the development of a future, well-powered randomised-controlled trial.