Collaborative digital sports systems that encourage exercise

Abstract

Although the importance of health and exercising as a way to maintain fitness and physical wellbeing is widely recognized, it is often difficult for people to persist with a regular workout schedule. In this paper, we propose a solution to this problem through "Collaborative Digital Sports." This is a digital sports environment where participants are given a shared goal. Through the use of body motion sensors and video projection feedback, this environment works as a fitness playground that requires physical movements by participants. This environment is adaptable to the fitness levels of the participants, as its sensor-feedback loop is digital and unencumbered by real sports equipment. Based on this concept, we designed and implemented two collaborative digital sporting activities. The "Group Jump Rope Orchestra" is a simulated jump rope environment where people are required to synchronize jumping over a projected rope as it periodically swings by. The "How Many Legged Race!?" is a variation of the three-legged race that can accommodate any number of participants as they synchronize their steps. We tested these sports environments with numerous participants and discovered that the cooperative nature of these digital sports helps motivate the players and fosters a shared sense of caring among them. © 2014 Springer International Publishing.