Computer- and web-based interventions to increase preadolescent and adolescent physical activity: a systematic review

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Pediatric Health
• Digital Health Interventions

Background:

• Youth physical activity levels have declined, leading to increased overweight and obesity rates.
• Obesity in youth predicts adult obesity and associated health issues like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
• Effective, scalable interventions are crucial to address the sedentary lifestyles of preadolescents and adolescents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review evidence on computer- and web-based interventions for increasing physical activity in youth.
• To assess the impact of these digital interventions on physical activity levels and related health metrics.
• To identify intervention components that enhance the success of digital physical activity programs.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of 14 randomized controlled trials and quasi-experimental studies.
• Searched electronic databases (CINAHL, PubMed, PsycINFO, etc.) for studies published between 1998 and 2010.
• Evaluated intervention effects on physical activity, body mass index, weight, body fat percentage, and waist circumference.

Main Results:

• Most interventions showed statistically significant, though often small and short-lived, increases in physical activity or positive health changes.
• School-based delivery, theoretical frameworks, individual tailoring, and parental involvement were discussed as potentially enhancing factors.
• The long-term sustainability of physical activity changes achieved through these digital interventions remains a challenge.

Conclusions:

• Computer- and web-based interventions show potential for promoting physical activity in preadolescents and adolescents, especially within school settings.
• While these digital tools can initiate positive changes, sustained engagement and long-term health benefits require further development and research.
• Future efforts should focus on strategies to maintain physical activity levels beyond the intervention period.