In-game Adaptation of an Exergame

Comparing the training experience of the ExerCube using the individual determined or calculated maximal heart rate for in-game adaptations

Physical activity and exercise bring along considerable health benefits, from what a great part of our population could benefit. A diverse spectrum of different training programs is available, from which many pursue the goal: keeping us fit and healthy. Nevertheless, a lack of motivation exists in some people to perform physical exercise at a higher intensity and over a longer time period. One approach to still catch the interest of this specific audience is to make the workout more attractive by integrating a playful and fun game scenario. Exergames, also called fitness games, were invented to combine the interesting setup of video gaming with the performance of physical exertion. In a recent study, the investigators could show that the ExerCube could generate this dual-flow feeling in healthy young adults demonstrated by an enhanced attention aimed to the video game and away from the physical performance and exhaustion. However, the optimal physical challenge, up to now, was determined using the formula calculation of the maximal heart rate (HR). Therefore, the next logical step is to individually determine the maximal HR for in-game adaptations and to compare it to the formula calculation for in-game adaptations by assessing training intensity as well as training enjoyment and flow feeling in young and healthy adults.

This study is a collaboration of our research group with the company external page Sphery.