Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 31, 2026
07:27
Exergaming in Older People Living with HIV Improves Balance, Mobility and Ameliorates Some Aspects of Frailty
Published on: October 6, 2016
Active video games for youth: a systematic review
Anthony Barnett1, Ester Cerin, Tom Baranowski
1Institute of Human Performance, University of Hong Kong, China.
Journal of Physical Activity & Health
|July 8, 2011
Summary
Active video games (AVGs) can increase physical activity (PA) in youth, but engagement often declines over time. More research is needed to sustain AVG play for long-term health benefits.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Health
- Exercise Science
- Digital Health
Background:
- Population-level increase in physical activity (PA) is crucial for reducing youth obesity.
- Active video games (AVGs) present a potential avenue for promoting PA in adolescents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review studies on energy expenditure (EE) during AVG play in youth.
- To assess the maintenance and sustainability of AVG play over time in young populations.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search for studies measuring AVG play EE and play maintenance in youth.
- Quality and informational value assessment of identified studies.
- Meta-analysis of energy expenditure estimates from relevant studies.
Main Results:
- Nine studies reported AVG play EE, with average METs ranging from 3.1 to 3.2, below the vigorous PA threshold.
- No significant differences in EE were observed based on age or gender, but game type influenced results.
- Four studies indicated that AVG use typically declines over time, with low-to-medium study quality.
Conclusions:
- AVGs can contribute to meeting PA guidelines for youth by generating energy expenditure.
- The sustainability of AVG play is a concern, as engagement tends to decrease shortly after initiation.
- Future research should focus on strategies to enhance the long-term maintenance of AVG play.
Related Concept Videos
01:24Social Foundations of Self I: Play and Game
The development of self in children is deeply rooted in social interactions, mainly through stages of play and structured games. These stages, outlined by sociologist George Herbert Mead, illustrate how children progressively learn to understand and adopt social roles, forming a cohesive sense of self.The Play Stage: Imitation and Simple Role-TakingIn the early years of childhood, the play stage is characterized by imitative behavior, where children engage in role-playing based on familiar...
01:43Sex-linked Disorders
Like autosomes, sex chromosomes contain a variety of genes necessary for normal body function. When a mutation in one of these genes results in biological deficits, the disorder is considered sex-linked.
01:30Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects approximately 5-8% of children globally, with around 60-70% of cases persisting into adulthood. ADHD has significant implications for educational attainment, social interactions, and occupational success.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
01:18Models of Health Promotion and Illness Prevention II
The person's health status fluctuates continually, varying from being in good health to becoming ill and returning to being healthy. To understand the concept of illness prevention, there are two models. First, the health-illness continuum model is a graphic representation of an individual's wellness. It states that a person is considered healthy in the absence of physical disease and the presence of good emotional health.
The agent-host-environment model states that disease results from...
The agent-host-environment model states that disease results from...