Exergames and healty nutrition joined against obesity for 1 year: preliminary results at 3 month follow-up

Aim: We hypothesize that the inclusion of exergame improves weight loss and prevents attrition in slimming treatments. We planned the present study to compare weight loss and attrition between two combined treatments with or without the inclusion of exergames in obese patients. Methods: Twenty healthy volunteers (25–50 years, both sexes and BMI 25–40) were recruited and randomized to one of two treatment condition: Diet Group (DG) and Diet + Exergames Group (DEG). Physical activity intervention was provided in DEG. An expert in Adapted Physical Activity established the exercise program for each volunteer according to his/her physical fitness and attitude among the different features offered by Wii Fit Plus. The training program was defined and monitored during 60 min group session every 2 weeks and the participants were asked to repeat their program at home three times per week. General physical activity level was controlled with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) [1] during the treatment period in both group. Results: 80 % of participants completed 3 month period. Mean weight loss was significantly greater in the DEG (-7.11 %; p.05), compared to the DG (-6.74 %; p .05). These preliminary results can be explained by a significant reduction in energy intake and increase the level of weekly activity (METs/min/week) compared to baseline in both groups. Conclusions: Preliminary results seem to support our hypothesis regardingthe usefulness ofincludingthe exergamesin slimmingtreatment. A more detailed assessment will be available at the end of the study.