The Influence of Active Gaming on Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Black and Hispanic Youth. (10th September 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Flynn, Rachel M.; Staiano, Amanda E.; Beyl, Robbie; Richert, Rebekah A.; Wartella, Ellen; Calvert, Sandra L.
• Is Part Of: Journal of school health. Volume 88:Number 10(2018)
• Page Start: 768
• Page End: 775
• Publication Date: 2018-09-10
• Subjects: video games -- cardiorespiratory fitness -- physical fitness -- adolescent; School health services -- Periodicals; School children -- Health and hygiene -- Periodicals; Health education -- Periodicals; School Health Services -- Periodicals; Health Education -- Periodicals; 371.71
• DOI: 10.1111/josh.12679
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0022-4391

Abstract

ABSTRACT: BACKGROUND: Youth in the United States have low levels of cardiorespiratory fitness, a risk factor for childhood obesity. Lower levels of physical fitness for black and Hispanic youth contribute to health disparities. In this feasibility study, we examined active video games (AVGs) as a tool to improve fitness and attitudes toward physical activity during early adolescence. METHOD: A 6‐week AVG program took place in a youth development program in a high‐poverty neighborhood in New York City. Youth aged 10 to 15 years (50% overweight or obese) participated in 2 fitness tests and completed surveys that captured barriers to physical activity pre‐ and postintervention. Each week, participants played Wii Fit games for 30 minutes. RESULTS: Participants improved the number of sit‐ups and step‐ups they completed from pre‐ to postintervention (p < .05). Participants also increased their self‐efficacy, intention to exercise and perceived social support to exercise (p < .05). Youth reported a high level of enjoyment and perceived Wii Fit as ways to increase physical fitness and increase their physical activity. CONCLUSION: AVGs may be a viable alternative exercise program to increase physical activity for black and Hispanic youth living in poverty‐impacted neighborhoods.