BACKGROUND
Exergaming is increasing in popularity, but little is known about sustained exergaming.
OBJECTIVE
The objectives of this study were to describe the frequency and correlates/predictors of sustained exergaming.
METHODS
Data were available in AdoQuest (2005-11), a longitudinal investigation of 1843 grade 5 students in in Montréal, Canada. This analysis uses data from grade 9 and 11. Participants at T1 (mean age 14 (0.8) years) who reported past-week exergaming (n = 186), completed mailed self-report questionnaires at T2 (mean age 16 (0.8) years). Independent correlates (from T2)/predictors (from T1 or earlier) were identified using multivariable logistic regression.
RESULTS
Of 186 exergamers at T1, 81 (44%) reported exergaming at T2. Being female and having higher introjected regulation (i.e., a type of PA motivation indicative of internalization of PA as a behaviour) were independent correlates.. None of the predictors investigated were associated with sustained exergaming.
CONCLUSIONS
Almost 50% of grade 9 exergamers sustained for 2-3 years. In non-clinical settings, exergaming may be a viable approach to help adolescents maintain PA during adolescence, a period in the life course when PA generally declines. Sex and PA motivation should be considered in the design of exergaming interventions.
CLINICALTRIAL
N\A