Gameplay as Exercise

Abstract

We designed and evaluated an exertion video game in order to overcome two challenges that are preventing exergames from becoming a viable sustained exercise alternative; insufficient physical exertion and player retention. This was achieved by implementing common features shared by the most popular video games and seamlessly merging them with the exertion found in exergames. A user study was performed where the exergame was played 132 times over three days by 8 participants. Compared to the control condition, a moderately paced walk, the exergame scored better on both subjective enjoyment and degree of physical activity. Further research could consider alternative versions of exergames, as well as different user groups.