Pre-post changes in physiological, cognitive, and motivational outcomes following an active video game intervention in adolescents and adults: a pilot study.

BACKGROUND: Active video games (AVG) are emerging as a promising home-based strategy to increase physical activity by integrating movement into interactive gameplay. However, evidence remains limited regarding their effectiveness across physiological, cognitive, and motivational outcomes in adolescents and adults within household settings. METHODS: In this uncontrolled pilot study, participants completed an 8-week home-based intervention using Ring Fit Adventure on the Nintendo Switch. Participants were instructed to engage in at least 60 min of gameplay per week. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included body composition measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis, handgrip strength, and cognitive and fitness performance using the Sway application (balance, reaction time, and executive function tasks). Psychological and motivational constructs were assessed using Self-Determination Theory-based questionnaires. Paired t-tests and correlation analyses were used to evaluate changes over time and associations between variables. RESULTS: Adolescents demonstrated significant changes in body composition, with increased fat-free mass and reduced fat mass (p < 0.05) while, no significant body composition changes were observed in adults. Muscular strength remained stable in adolescents; however, adults exhibited a significant decline in left-hand grip strength (p = 0.037), which did not remain significant after correction for multiple comparisons. No robust changes were observed in cognitive or balance outcomes after adjustment. Motivational regulation and exercise enjoyment remained stable throughout the intervention, and psychological constructs were not significantly associated with changes in autonomous motivation. CONCLUSION: An 8-week low-dose AVG intervention produced modest and heterogeneous effects, with more favorable physiological responses observed in adolescents than adults. However, changes in adolescent body composition likely reflect normal developmental processes and cannot be attributed solely to the intervention. Overall, commercially available AVGs appear insufficient as a standalone intervention for improving broader cognitive, fitness, or motivational outcomes. Future research should employ controlled designs, optimize intervention dose, improve adherence, and incorporate structured progression to enhance effectiveness.