mHealth application as physical activity intervention: a case study on physical activity, emotional exhaustion, and work performance

ABSTRACTPhysical activity interventions are proven to mitigate job stress and improve work performance. However, the recommended threshold of physical activity is rarely considered when evaluating the effect of physical activity. This study adopted case study approach to investigate the moderating effect of the threshold of physical activity on the relationship between emotional exhaustion and work performance, based on the conservation of resources theory. The research site was an Asian university wherein the university developed a mHealth application as a physical activity intervention to promote Exercise-is-Medicine® On Campus. A longitudinal survey was conducted to collect quantitative data for analysis, and interviews were conducted for further insights. The results supported the hypothesis that the threshold of physical activity was an effective moderator in the exhaustion-performance relationship. This study enriches the burnout literature and substantiates literature on technology-enabled solutions for improving work performance by engaging users to do regular and sufficient physical activity.