Supplementing a widely available weight loss program with gamified inhibitory control training: A randomized pilot study

Abstract

Abstract Background Increasing evidence suggests that targeting self‐regulatory processes may improve obesity treatment outcomes. Incorporating gamification principles in inhibitory control training may promote sustained training adherence and resulting benefits. This pilot study evaluated the preliminary efficacy of supplementing an evidence‐based weight management program (WW) with sustained gamified inhibitory control training (PolyRules!) on change in Body Mass Index (BMI) among adults with overweight/obesity. Methods 30 adults with overweight/obesity (M age 49.9 ± 12.4, 86.7% female; 23.3% Hispanic, mean BMI 35.3 ± 6.3) were randomly assigned to receive WW with or without PolyRules! for 12 weeks. The primary outcome was change in BMI from baseline to post‐intervention across study arms. Implementation and process indicators were captured to inform larger trials. Results Average change in BMI was −0.9 in the WW arm and −1.2 in the WW + PolyRules! arm (Cohen's d = 0.26). In the WW + PolyRules! arm, increased training was associated with greater decreases in BMI (r = −0.506, p = 0.0454). WW + PolyRules! participants completed an average of 60.4% sessions and reported positive experiences. There was no difference in frequency of food (d = −0.02) and weight tracking (d = −0.19) between arms. Conclusions Studies in larger samples should evaluate training‐related effects on weight. Supplementing WW with gamified inhibitory training appears feasible, with no detrimental effect on engagement.

Keywords

• impulse regulation
• inhibitory control
• obesity