Exploring material representations of physical activity

Providing visual feedback plays an important role in motivating users towards a physical activity. To support user motivation, previous works in the field of HCI have focused on virtual representations of physical activity by providing different virtual visualization schemes. However, as being physically active happens in this physical world, I see an opportunity to explore alternate design strategy in representing physical activity in the form of material artifacts. This research contributes to the understanding of designing material representations of physical activity, by following a research through design approach: building and evaluating two systems that produce material representations as feedback and reward outcomes. I hope that this work will inspire designers to consider new possibilities afforded by digital fabrication to support user's experience with physical activity.