Affiliations: Section of Physical Therapy, The University of the West Indies, Kingston, Jamaica
Correspondence:
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Corresponding author: Sharmella Roopchand-Martin, Section of Physical Therapy, Level 3 Faculty of Medical Sciences Teaching and Research Complex, The University of the West Indies, 2 West Road, Mona, Kingston, Jamaica. Tel.: +876 927 2235, +876 382 7143; Fax: +876 702 2023; E-mail:sharmella.roopchandmartin@uwimona.edu.jm
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: There is little research exploring training effects of
engaging in active video gaming activities. OBJECTIVES: This study sought to determine the cardiovascular and
metabolic responses, changes in flexibility and exercise adherence to an
aerobic dance exercise programme using the XBOX Kinect over a 6 week
training period. METHODS: Training was conducted using the Just Dance 4 disc on the
XBOX Kinect 360. Participants attended five, 30 minute sessions per week for
the first two weeks, four 45 minute sessions per week for the next two weeks
and three 60 minute sessions per week for the last two weeks. Outcomes
assessed included flexibility, body mass index (BMI), percentage body fat,
maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max), resting and post exercise blood
pressure, heart rate and blood lactate levels. RESULTS: There were significant improvements in
flexibility, maximal oxygen consumption and resting heart rate. There were
no significant changes in BMI, percentage body fat or blood lactate levels.
Nine (37.5%) participants continued to engage in this form of exercise at
least 3-days per week over the 3-month post intervention follow-up period. CONCLUSION: Engaging in dancing using dance videogames can lead to
improved cardiovascular conditioning and flexibility in sedentary female
university students.
