Full length articleEffects of gain-versus loss-framed performance feedback on the use of fitness apps: Mediating role of exercise self-efficacy and outcome expectations of exercise

•We examined the effect of message framing on intentions to use a fitness app (IUFA).•The gain-framed message had a positive effect on exercise self-efficacy (ESE).•Exercise self-efficacy made a significant positive impact on outcome expectations of exercise.•Outcome expectations of exercise (OEE) had a strong effect on intentions to use a fitness app.•The effect of gain-framed messages on IUFA was fully mediated by ESE and OEE.

Grounded in prospect theory and self-efficacy theory, this study examines the effect of message framing on users' intentions to adopt fitness applications (“apps”). Through the use of a laboratory experiment employing a specially designed fitness app, we tested the effectiveness of gain-framed performance feedback in the adoption of the fitness app as well as in enhancing exercise self-efficacy and outcome expectations of exercise. Results of this study show the advantage of gain-framed messages over loss-framed messages in increasing user's intentions to use the app. A mediation analysis using a bootstrap method revealed that the effect of the gain-framed messages on users' intentions to use the fitness app was mediated through exercise self-efficacy and outcome expectations of exercise.