ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and feasibility of a multifaceted, community-based weight intervention program for children using exergaming technology (activity-promoting video gaming). DESIGN AND METHODS: This is a prospective observational pilot study. Forty-eight children, between the ages of 8 and 16 years, who are overweight or obese, enrolled in Exergaming for Health, a multidisciplinary weight management program, which used active video gaming. Primary outcome measures were change in body mass index (BMI) z scores. RESULTS: Most children (n = 40, 83%) completed the program and participated in outcome evaluations. The average BMI change was -0.48 kg/m(2) (SD = 0.93), P < .002 (BMI z-score change was -0.072, SD = 0.14, P < .0001). The average Global Self-Worth score improved, screen time and soda intake reduced, and exercise hours per week increased. CONCLUSIONS: The Exergaming for Health program may be an effective weight management intervention that is feasible with high participation rates. A larger randomized controlled trial is needed to confirm these results.
