Physical Activity Changes in Exergames over Time

Introduction: One emerging strategy to increase individual physical activity levels are exergames. We conducted a longitudinal, exploratory study, investigating the physical activity benefits of exergame participation via a frequently played exergame called geocaching.

Methods: 1002 individuals enrolled in the study in January 2013 and tracked their physical activity while geocaching over a twelve-month calendar year (January 2013-February 2014). To analyze changes in physical activity over time and why these changes occurred, we used a Latent Growth Model. Dependent variables in the model were aggregated steps walked for summer, fall, winter, and spring. Independent variables were latent constructs representing enjoyment and gaming motivations.

Results: The model’s goodness of fit statistics were CFI=.98, NFI=.97, and RMSEA=.03, which all fall within the recommended values. Squared multiple correlations revealed that the enjoyment factor explained between 24%-95% of the variance and the gaming factor explained between 13%and 69% of the variance. Correlations between the observed variables and their respective factors were all statistically significant (p<.005). Correlations between the slope and intercept for steps walked over time show that the amount of steps walked was most influenced by and individual’s baseline.

Discussion: Our model showed that the intercept is more influential on steps walked overtime than slope. We can assert that the measures used to illustrate gaming and enjoyment are decent indicators of the latent constructs. Based on these findings, we can infer that the model is useful. The exergame of geocaching is a unique way to gain physical activity.