Strong uptake of health-tracking tools and fitness tech like smart watches, but questions remain over real-world impact.
Irish consumers are increasingly turning to technology to manage their health and fitness, with more than half of adults now using fitness tracking apps and six in ten owning a smart watch, according to new research from Pure Telecom.
The survey of 1,001 adults, conducted by Censuswide, found that 51 per cent of respondents use fitness apps, while 61 per cent rely on smart watches to monitor health and exercise data.
“Online fitness apps, smart watches and social media platforms are giving consumers more power to take control of their health and fitness”
Nutrition tracking apps are also popular, used by half of the population, rising sharply among younger adults to 76% in the 18–24 age group and 66% among those aged 25–34. Mental health apps have gained traction too, with 38% of adults using them, increasing to 56 p% among younger respondents.
Despite the widespread adoption of these tools, their effectiveness remains mixed. While 51% of users believe fitness apps have helped them become physically healthier, 35% say they have not seen any improvement. A similar proportion, 50%, credit apps with helping them reach fitness goals, and 57% say they provide motivation to work harder. Half of respondents also believe the apps have improved their mental health.
App-etite for health
Paul Connell, CEO, Pure Telecom
Social media is playing a significant role in shaping health habits. The research shows that 39% of adults feel motivated by social platforms to stay healthy, and 51% have followed advice from fitness influencers in the past year.
Video-sharing apps have influenced the eating habits of 30% of respondents. Among those who exercise regularly, 16% post workout images online, with men more likely than women to share such content.
“Online fitness apps, smart watches and social media platforms are giving consumers more power to take control of their health and fitness,” said Paul Connell, chief executive of Pure Telecom.
“But with that power comes a responsibility to educate users on their limitations, and the value of consulting a qualified expert.”
He added that Pure Telecom aims to provide the high-speed broadband needed to support these technologies and foster “a sense of community and friendly competition that fitness can bring.”
The findings highlight a growing reliance on digital tools to support healthier lifestyles, even as questions persist about their long-term impact on physical wellbeing.
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