Contribution of Exergaming Behaviour to Physical Activity: Toward Better Understanding the Role of Motivation

Exergaming serves as a viable, technology-driven strategy to increase energy expenditure and reduce sedentary behavior among youth. By providing an accessible alternative to traditional exercise, active video games consistently elicit higher heart rates and oxygen consumption than sedentary gaming, particularly when utilizing full-body movement mechanics. Despite these physiological benefits, the long-term impact of exergaming on habitual physical activity levels and body composition remains inconclusive. Current evidence suggests that while exergaming is a promising supplementary tool, it is not a standalone replacement for conventional physical activity.

The sustainability of exergaming behavior is highly variable, with approximately 44% of adolescents maintaining engagement over a two-year period. Research indicates that this behavior is often intermittent and triggered by immediate situational factors rather than consistent, long-term planning. To better understand these engagement patterns, the "Reasons to Exergame" (RTEX) scale has been developed and validated as a reliable instrument. This tool identifies four primary motivational factors—fitness, enjoyment, gaming preference, and alternative attractions—and confirms that intrinsic motivators, specifically enjoyment and autonomy, are the strongest predictors of sustained participation.

Future efforts to leverage exergaming for public health must move beyond short-term laboratory studies toward high-quality, longitudinal research conducted in naturalistic settings. Integrating Self-Determination Theory into game design is essential for fostering the intrinsic motivation required for long-term adherence. By tailoring interventions to individual preferences and incorporating social features such as cooperative play, developers and health practitioners can better utilize exergaming to combat declining physical activity levels. Ultimately, the field requires a shift toward standardized measurement and a deeper investigation into how mobile and augmented reality platforms can facilitate lasting healthy behaviors in youth.