Some people struggle with turning running into a habit because of negative, bodily experiences of exercise: They fear feelings of pain, feel discomfort when running near/with others, cannot structure exercise, and consequently do not regard themselves as recreational athletes.

In this research project, Joeb Grønborg investigates how laypeople use and combine different types of smartphone applications (e.g. self-tracking apps, music, training programme apps and game apps) in order to cope with their running struggles. By understanding in more detail when and how technology succeeds in supporting a more active life style as well as a more enjoyable exercise experience, the research project has the potential to inform the design of future technologies that encourage proactive health.