Trends in Sedentary Behavior, Physical Activity, and Motivation during a Classroom-Based Active Video Game Program

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Exercise Science
• Educational Technology

Background:

• Childhood sedentary behavior (SB) and physical activity (PA) are crucial for health.
• Classroom-based interventions are needed to promote healthy habits in children.
• Active Video Games (AVGs) offer a novel approach to integrate PA into the school day.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate trends in children's SB, PA, and motivation during a 12-week classroom AVG program.
• To assess the impact of a novel AVG intervention on elementary school children's physical activity levels and sedentary behavior.
• To examine changes in motivational factors, such as enjoyment and social support, throughout the AVG program.

Main Methods:

• A 12-week classroom-based Active Video Game (AVG) program involving 16 elementary school children.
• Objective assessment of SB, PA, and step counts using accelerometers throughout the intervention.
• Subjective assessment of motivational variables via questionnaires.
• Statistical analysis using mixed effects models with a quadratic time parameter to identify trends.

Main Results:

• A significant negative trend in sedentary behavior (SB) was observed.
• Positive trends in light and vigorous physical activity (PA) and step counts were noted until approximately 8-9 weeks, followed by an inflection point.
• Significant increases in enjoyment and social support from teachers were reported across the 12 weeks.

Conclusions:

• Classroom-based AVG programs show potential for improving children's physical and mental health by reducing SB and increasing PA.
• The positive effects of AVG programs on PA trends appear to be attenuated after 8-9 weeks.
• Low-cost AVG interventions can be a viable strategy to promote healthier lifestyles in elementary school settings, warranting further investigation into sustained engagement.