Determining the Effectiveness of the Traq3D Interactive Technology-Guided Exercise Program in Treating Childhood Obesity Among African American Youth

Childhood obesity rates have increased dramatically in the United States over the past two decades, and disproportionately higher rates are found among minority populations. In Ohio, one-third of children are obese while over one-half of high school students do not meet recommended physical activity guidelines.

The Traq3D physical activity program consists of a high-intensity interactive technology-guided exercise experience that places the user center stage in a video that incorporates interval exercises with traditional core building exercises. Limited research exists on the effectiveness of active gaming on body BMI-for-age percentile, but studies have confirmed significant caloric expenditure.

The purpose of this pilot study is to examine the impact of the Traq3D program on measures of childhood obesity as well as increased enjoyment/motivation in regular physical activity among 20 African American children from grades 5-9 recruited from inner city churches and schools.

The cross-over study design will allow students to be randomly assigned to the Traq3D intervention group or the traditional indoor fitness program control group. Each group will participate in a 30-minute program four days a week for 12 weeks and then switch to the other group.

It is hypothesized that while both groups will notice significant changes in BMI reduction, the Traq3D program will improve self-perceptions (perceived competence, motivation, self-efficacy) and expected outcomes (enjoyment, positive attitudes) toward physical activity that comprise the predisposing factors of Welk's Youth Physical Activity Promotion (YPAP) model. The positive impact on these factors can be expected to increase long-term compliance to recommended physical activity guidelines.