title: Exercise Video Games and Exercise Self-Efficacy in Children.
abstract: The aim of this article was to investigate the use of exergaming in promoting exercise behavior among children and to examine the impact of the intervention on participants' exercise self-efficacy, in addition to assessing physiological changes. A sample of 55 children enrolled in the Family Fit program, where participants were categorized into 2 groups: healthy weight and overweight. Measures were taken at baseline, after the 7-week program, at the 12-week follow-up, and at the 24-month follow-up. Positive changes in exercise self-efficacy were significant for the overweight group, while the healthy weight group maintained their exercise self-efficacy. At the 24-month follow-up, 97% children reported being interested in participating in a future fitness program, and 96% children who did not play sports before the intervention started practicing sports. Exercise self-efficacy is a predictor of physical activity, and incorporating exergaming in a structured program may lead to increased self-efficacy in participants.
authors.affiliation: Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA.
authors.forename: Hildemar
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Dos Santos
authors.affiliation: Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA.
authors.forename: Margaret Dinhluu
authors.initials: MD
authors.lastname: Bredehoft
authors.affiliation: Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA.
authors.forename: Frecia M
authors.initials: FM
authors.lastname: Gonzalez
authors.affiliation: Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA.
authors.forename: Susanne
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Montgomery
keywords: children; exergaming; overweight; physical activity; self-efficacy