As the first stage of substantive theory building, this study explored the behavioral responses of people with long-term weight concerns using mHealth to increase their physical activity within a New Zealand context. A constructivist grounded theory method was adopted. Twenty-two participants with long-term weight concerns and personal experience using mobile health to increase physical activity participated in in-depth interviews. Four themes and eight categories were conceptualized: motivation, physical activity behavioral responses, mobile health evaluation, and social interaction. The role of mobile health in increasing physical activity and improving overall wellness is broadly acknowledged and facilitates, to some extent, the social interactions among family, friends and the wider community.
Keywords: Mobile health; grounded theory method; physical activity; weight.