Active Video Games and Children's Physical Activity
Author Information
Author(s): Ni Mhurchu Cliona, Maddison Ralph, Jiang Yannan, Jull Andrew, Prapavessis Harry, Rodgers Anthony
Primary Institution: Clinical Trials Research Unit, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
Hypothesis
The primary objective of this pilot study was to evaluate the effect of active video games on children's physical activity levels.
Conclusion
Playing active video games may help children be more active and play fewer video games overall.
Supporting Evidence
- Children in the intervention group played fewer total video games compared to the control group.
- Physical activity levels were higher in the active video game group at 6 weeks.
- The intervention group had a lower average time spent playing inactive games.
Takeaway
This study found that kids who played active video games moved around more and played less of other video games.
Methodology
A 12-week pilot randomized intervention study with children aged 10-14, measuring physical activity using accelerometers and self-reports.
Limitations
The pilot study was not adequately powered to detect differences in anthropometric outcomes.
Participant Demographics
Twenty children aged 10-14 years, 40% female.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.04
Confidence Interval
95% CI [-92, 2]
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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