Digital tools such as smartphone apps and wearable fitness trackers can significantly increase physical activity among people with cardiovascular disease, according to a meta-analysis published today in the Journal of the American Heart Association. The review of 14 clinical trials involving more than 1,000 adults found that individuals using these technologies walked nearly 1,100 more steps per day and engaged in about four extra minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity compared to those who did not use them.
Physical activity is crucial for preventing additional cardiovascular events, yet many patients face barriers to traditional cardiac rehabilitation, including time, distance, and cost. “Smartphones and wearables are already in people’s pockets and on their wrists,” said lead author Ajith Vemuri, Ph.D., a staff scientist at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. “When we show that these devices can effectively support routine care, we can start designing cost-effective, personalized digital interventions that reach a much wider population.”
The study, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, included participants with diagnosed cardiovascular conditions such as coronary heart disease, heart failure, or a history of heart attack or stroke. Digital interventions varied but commonly included goal setting, reminders, motivational messaging, and progress tracking. Some apps incorporated gamification or coaching.
“These devices are not just gadgets,” said senior author Ramin Zand, M.D., M.P.H., a professor at Penn State College of Medicine. “When included in a treatment plan, they can support routine care and help patients take small yet important steps toward better cardiovascular health.”
Despite the positive results, the analysis found no significant improvement in peak oxygen consumption or walking distance. “Longer studies are needed to see if these changes lead to lasting improvement in fitness and overall health outcomes,” Zand noted.
The findings align with a 2021 American Heart Association scientific statement on harnessing mobile health technology for secondary cardiovascular disease prevention. Damon L. Swift, Ph.D., FAHA, immediate past-chair of the Association’s Lifestyle Physical Activity Committee, emphasized that “combining mobile and wearable technologies with standard preventive measures provides a unique opportunity to potentially further reduce the risk of advanced cardiovascular disease.” He added that even modest increases in activity, such as reaching 7,000 steps per day, are associated with reduced mortality risk.
The meta-analysis reviewed studies published between January 2000 and February 2025 from PubMed, Cochrane, and Web of Science. Most participants had coronary heart disease, which may limit generalizability to other cardiovascular conditions. The researchers called for longer-term studies to confirm whether these healthy habits are sustainable over time.
“Research has shown that fewer than one-third of people with cardiovascular disease are physically active,” Swift said. “Wearable technology may have a positive impact by encouraging people to be a little more active.”
