Abstract
In the last decade, active video games (exergames) have been proposed in obesity prevention and treatment as a potential tool to increase physical activity. This review was aimed to assess the possible role of exergames in reducing weight-related outcomes among overweight/obese children and/or adolescents. The databases PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and SPORTDiscus were interrogated to detect controlled studies involving healthy overweight/obese children and adolescents in interventions based exclusively on exergames. Out of a total of 648 articles found, 10 met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. The included studies differ for duration, setting and type of intervention, frequency of active game sessions, and outcomes considered. Seven out of ten studies reported better outcomes in children/adolescents involved in the interventions, with significant differences between groups in four, while three studies found better outcomes in control groups. These results suggest a possible positive effect of active video games on weight-related outcomes in obese children and adolescents. However, further research is still needed to define if they can be effectively used in childhood obesity treatment and which may be the most effective approach. The potentiality of the new digital media in this field should be explored.
Highlights
In the last four decades, the prevalence of obesity among children and adolescents aged 5–19 years increased from 0.8% to 6.8% globally [1]
Overweight and obesity are caused by an energy imbalance which results from an increased intake of energy-dense foods and an inadequate energy expenditure through physical activity
The present review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines to identify articles on the validity of exergames as a tool for weight improvement among overweight/obese children or adolescents
Summary
In the last four decades, the prevalence of obesity among children and adolescents aged 5–19 years increased from 0.8% to 6.8% globally [1]. Overweight and obesity are caused by an energy imbalance which results from an increased intake of energy-dense foods and an inadequate energy expenditure through physical activity. Children and adolescents spend most of their daily time in a sitting position, during the school time and dedicating their free time to screen-based activities, such as watching TV and playing video games [6]. This scenario was worsened by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which caused many changes in dietary behaviors and physical activities of children and adolescents.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: International journal of environmental research and public health
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
