Activation Health

Mobile health data collection for research

About the research

Activation Health is a research app that collects health and activity data from participants' phones through Apple Health on iPhone and Health Connect on Android.

What the studies look at

Our research focuses on understanding patterns in health metrics such as movement, activity levels, and vital signs to advance health research and improve our understanding of human health behaviors.

App Features

Activation Health provides participants with:

  • Interactive Activity Dashboard with daily and weekly metrics
  • Visual charts comparing current and previous week activity
  • Smart background sync with WiFi and cellular awareness
  • Scheduled PROMIS surveys with notification reminders

Data Collection

Depending on the study, the app collects data such as:

  • Physical activity metrics (steps, distance, active energy)
  • Mobility and gait data (walking speed, step length, asymmetry)
  • Cardiovascular metrics (heart rate, resting heart rate)
  • Sleep analysis and exercise information

Privacy & Security

Your privacy is our top priority:

  • All data is encrypted during transmission
  • Participant identifiers are anonymized
  • Data is stored securely on University servers
  • You maintain full control over your participation
  • You can ask for your data to be deleted at any time — see Requesting deletion of your data

Participation Requirements

  • iPhone running iOS 16.6 or later, or an Android phone running Android 8.0 or later with Health Connect
  • Enrollment in an active research study
  • Completed informed consent process
  • Valid participant code provided by research coordinator

Questions or need support?

Contact us at activation@ucalgary.ca

User Guide | Support & FAQs | Data Deletion