The motivational effects of the Singapore's national steps challenge: How long can it last?

IntroductionThe Singapore national step challenge (NSC) is world’s first population-level initiative to promote a physically active lifestyle. In this challenge, participants are encouraged to clock 10,000 steps daily where... [ view full abstract ]

Introduction

The Singapore national step challenge (NSC) is world’s first population-level initiative to promote a physically active lifestyle. In this challenge, participants are encouraged to clock 10,000 steps daily where they are converted into ‘sure-win’ rewards like grocery vouchers, as well as eligibility to participate in a grand lucky draw with the top prize of an attractive holiday destination. Given that such performance-contingent rewards have been found to undermine intrinsic motivation (Deci, Koestner, & Ryan, 1999), the present study intends to find out if participants are still physically active and what are their motivational levels four months after the NSC has ended.

Method

Past participants of the NSC (N = 74), aged 21 to 63 were sampled in the present study. Participants completed an online survey, which consisted of a physical activity (LTEQ; Godin & Shephard, 1997) and a motivation (BREQ – 2; Markland & Tobin, 2004) questionnaire. A follow-up interview study was conducted to gain better understanding on the participants' motivation. 

Result

The statistical analyses provided some interesting findings. For example, identified regulation (M = 2.90, SD = .85) has the highest mean score among the different forms of extrinsic motivation. In addition, identified regulation has the highest correlation with the reported physical activity patterns (r = .62, p <.01).Qualitative data revealed that there was little change in the participants’ physical activity patterns before and after the NSC and that they participated in the NSC mainly for the rewards.   

Discussion

The present study did not find any undermining effects of rewards on intrinsic motivation as hypothesised. However, it triggers further interest in exploring other relevant determinants (e.g. family and peer influence) that may influence the long-term interest of NSC participants. Findings in these determinants may provide useful strategies to the relevant authorities in designing future nation-wide physical activity programmes.