Internet of Healthy Things in Promoting Physical Activity

The Internet of Healthy Things (IoHT) represents a focused subset of the Internet of Things (IoT), applying connected technologies to support health and wellness. This chapter examines IoHT applications in the promotion of physical activity (PA). Core components such as sensors and wearables, cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, mobile integration, and ecosystem connectivity form the technological foundation of IoHT. The chapter then describes how IoHT promotes activity through real-time monitoring, goal setting and feedback, gamification, behavioral nudges, and telehealth integration. Benefits include improved motivation, personalization, accessibility, and continuity of care, while challenges such as privacy, security, equity, and regulatory considerations remain. The chapter concludes with future innovations centered on AI, human-in-the-loop design, AI-based gamification, multimodal sensing, and interoperable health ecosystems; it argues that rigorous governance and truly interdisciplinary collaboration are essential to translate these advances into equitable, sustainable improvements in everyday PA participation.