Active Video Game Program for People with Type 2 Diabetes- a Pilot Study

Abstract

The objective of this study was to assess the effects of an active video game (AVG) program in physiological parameters, fitness levels, motivation to physical activity, and quality of life on people with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Eight T2D patients participated in the 8-week AVG program using Xbox Kinect and/or Nintendo Wii. Heart rate (HR) and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were monitored during exercise. Physiological and fitness assessment included hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c), HR, blood pressure (BP), body mass index, body composition, aerobic and muscular endurance, muscular strength, and flexibility. Psychological outcome measures included the Physical Activity Measure-Revised (MPAM-R), Situational Motivation Scale (SIMS), and World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL)-BREF. Participants demonstrated a moderate level of exercise intensity during AVG based on average HR and RPE. HbA1c, BP, and lower extremity muscle strength were improved, but were not statistically significant. The changes on psychological assessment were not significant. However, most participants demonstrated positive behavior and attitudes toward health and physical activity at one-month follow-up. This pilot study demonstrated that the AVG program might be an effective and alternative way of exercise for people with T2D. A future RCT is warranted to determine the physical and psychological effects of AVG on T2D population.

Keywords

• active video game
• exergaming
• type 2 diabetes
• fitness
• motivation