People who more frequently sit for extended periods beyond 30 minutes are at a higher risk of having a future heart attack or stroke. Our research partners from the University of Manitoba were looking for a interactive and innovative solution to help people to break up periods of sitting and reduce their risk.
Challenge
Solution
ENCOURAGE incorporates evidence-based behaviour change techniques to help users reduce sedentary time during their workday. Reducing sedentary time (a risk factor distinct from insufficient exercise) has been shown to decrease risk of several chronic diseases including cardiovascular disease and diabetes, decrease risk of all-cause mortality, and increase psychological health.
Developed in collaboration with expert researchers from the University of Manitoba specializing in behaviour change, chronic disease prevention, and physical activity innovation; ENCOURAGE helps people learn key skills to self-manage their health and take steps to improve it.