The Effectiveness of Using Application KAOTAJAI for Promoting Physical Activity in Employees of a Company in Lamphun Province.

Abstract

Extended periods of continuous work in a corporate setting reveal a disparity in physical activity levels between men and women, with women engaging in less physical activity. Insufficient physical activity negatively impacts health. To address this, department of Health has developed the motivating KAOTAJAI app to promote easily accessible physical activities. Application KAOTAJAI includes knowledge-sharing, activity tracking, and meaningful interpretation of exercise routines, along with rewards as incentives to increase public interest in exercising. This research aims to study the effectiveness of the KAOTAJAI app in promoting physical activity among female employees in a company in Lamphun Province. The sample includes 50 female employees, randomly assigned to an experimental (25 participants) and a control group (25 participants). The study uses the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ Version 2) and assesses physical fitness through the YMCA Step Test. The experimental group records exercise results in application KAOTAJAI, while the control group uses a logbook. The intervention period lasts for 8 weeks. Analysis includes calculating the Metabolic Equivalent (MET) of physical activity from GPAQ data and assessing heart rate after the YMCA Step Test. Statistical tests, such as the Kolmogorov-Smirnov Test, Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test, and Mann-Whitney U Test, reveal non-normal distributions and significant differences (p < 0.05). Comparisons show a significant increase in MET values after the program in the experimental group, while the control group exhibits no significant difference. Heart rate differences are also significant, indicating improved physical fitness in the experimental group. In conclusion, using application KAOTAJAI effectively promotes employee engagement in exercise and enhances physical fitness.