CArticle RETRACTED due to malpractice onfigurational adoption of fitness technologies among business students using fsQCA
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Introduction: digital fitness technologies support physical activity monitoring and self-management among university students. Objective: this study analyzed the causal configurations that explain high adoption of fitness apps and wearable devices among final-level business students at a university-level technological institution in the Ecuadorian highlands. Methodology: a quantitative, cross-sectional, explanatory-configurational design was applied to 403 valid responses. The model included perceived health–academic value, digital fitness self-efficacy, algorithmic coaching trust, privacy–personalization calculus, gamified social influence, fitness technology accessibility, and active learning culture. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, reliability tests, complementary regression, fuzzy-set calibration, and fsQCA. Results: the constructs showed adequate reliability. The regression model explained 75% of the variance in high adoption. No single condition was necessary, while five sufficient configurations were identified. Algorithmic coaching trust and privacy–personalization calculus appeared in all pathways. Discussion: adoption was not explained only by access or perceived usefulness, but by combinations of trust, personalization, digital capability, gamification, and institutional culture. Conclusions: high fitness technology adoption among business students is a configurational phenomenon that requires flexible and transparent digital physical-activity strategies.
Source: Retos
Language: English
Subfield: General Health Professions
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $215
OpenAlex ID: W7203668650