Abstract
Background:Exergaming may be an effective way to engage in moderate-to-vigorous physical-activity (MVPA). Little is known about the type, duration, and intensity of exergaming among adolescents and what psychosocial characteristics may differentiate exergamers from non-exergamers. Purpose:(1) to describe the type, timing and intensity of exergaming in adolescents and, (2) to determine if exergamers differ from non-exergamers on socio-demographics, PA motivation, or in weight perception/behavior based on sociocultural and motivation theories. Method: Data were available in AdoQuest, a longitudinal investigation of children initially aged 10-12 years in 2005. The sample included 740 participants who completed mailed self-report questionnaires (aged 16-18 years). Variables were assessed using scientifically supported instruments. Objectives were addressed using chi-square tests and ANOVA's. Results: Twenty-four percent reported exergaming. Girls were more likely to exergame (X2(1, N = 711) = 9.28, p <.05). Participants reported an average of 2 days/week; 23 min/bout at a perceived moderate intensity (57%) and, playing 'Wii Sports' (75%).Those who exergamed had higher scores for introjected regulation [M=1.78 (0.98); F(1, 713) = 12.13, p = .00]. Exergamers were more likely to perceive themselves to be too thinheavy (X2 (1, N = 714) = 4.41, p <.05)and to be trying to gain/lose/maintain weight (X2 (1, N = 715) = 4.68, p <.05). Conclusion:Youth are exergaming at moderate-intensities. Girls, who may not enjoy traditional PA such as organized sports could view exergaming as a alternative to foster weight change. Exergaming could be encouraged among youth to meet current PA guidelines.Acknowledgments: PORT, ICE grant, CIHR and the INSPQ