Enhancing Practitioner Skills Through Sustained Exergaming: Insights from Longitudinal Research

The landscape of physical activity among adolescents is evolving with the integration of technology. Exergaming, a form of exercise that combines video gaming with physical activity, has emerged as a promising tool to increase physical activity levels and reduce sedentary behavior among youth. Recent longitudinal research titled "Factors Associated with Sustained Exergaming: Longitudinal Investigation" offers valuable insights for practitioners looking to leverage exergaming in their practice.

The Potential of Exergaming

The study highlights that exergaming can be a viable approach to engage adolescents in sustained physical activity. Almost half of the grade 9 students who participated in the study continued exergaming for two years. This finding suggests that exergaming may help adolescents maintain an active lifestyle during a critical period known for declines in physical activity.

Key Findings and Practical Applications

• Sustained Engagement: The research found that being female and having higher introjected regulation (a type of motivation where physical activity is internalized as a behavior) were significant correlates of sustained exergaming. Practitioners can use this information to tailor interventions that encourage long-term engagement in physical activities through exergames.
• Motivation Matters: The study underscores the importance of motivation in sustaining exergaming. Self-determination theory (SDT) suggests that intrinsic motivation can enhance engagement. Practitioners should focus on fostering intrinsic motivation by providing choices and creating supportive environments that encourage autonomy and competence.
• Gender-Specific Strategies: The findings indicate that girls are more likely to sustain exergaming than boys. This insight can guide practitioners to develop gender-specific strategies that address unique motivational factors and preferences.

The Role of Practitioners

Practitioners play a crucial role in integrating exergaming into health and wellness programs for adolescents. By understanding the factors that contribute to sustained engagement, practitioners can design effective interventions that promote physical activity and overall well-being. Encouraging parents to support their children's participation in exergames and exploring family-based exergaming activities can further enhance adherence.

Encouraging Further Research

This research opens avenues for further exploration into the determinants of sustained exergaming. Practitioners are encouraged to conduct additional studies to identify predictors of long-term engagement and refine intervention strategies. Understanding the nuances of motivation and behavior change in different demographic groups will be essential for developing targeted approaches.

The integration of technology into physical activity presents exciting opportunities for practitioners. By leveraging insights from research on sustained exergaming, practitioners can enhance their skills and contribute to healthier lifestyles for adolescents.

Factors Associated with Sustained Exergaming: Longitudinal Investigation