Using Exergames to Promote Physical Activity : a Literature Review

Abstract

In the research literature, playing electronic video games has been traditionally associated with various risks for both mental and physical health. In recent years, a new type of video games call active video games or exergames have emerged. Exergames involve physical activity as a mean of interacting with the game. There is little evidence about the benefits of exergames to promote physical activity (PA). The goal of this study is to present an overview of the recently published literature on this area. A literature search on international online bibliographic databases was conducted. The expected benefits of exergames were used as categorization scheme. Studies reported that exergames significantly increase energy expenditure and heart rate compare to sedentary video gaming. Evidence is mixed on whether exergames engage children in levels of activity that are consistent with public health recommendations for physical activity and improving cardiorespiratory fitness. Studies suggested that multiplayer classes may increase children’s motivation to play exergames. One study report that exergames can enhance students’ motor skill. More investigations are necessary to confirm the benefits of exergames to promote PA. We suggest to move from design exergames for entertainment to design exergames for learning.