Exercise intensity during exergaming in wheelchair-dependent persons with SCI

Spinal Cord, 2023 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41393-023-00893-3 · Published: April 3, 2023

Simple Explanation

This study explores whether wheelchair-dependent individuals with spinal cord injuries can achieve sufficient exercise intensity through exergaming. Participants played three different exergames while their exercise intensity was monitored based on peak oxygen uptake and heart rate. The results suggest that exergaming can provide a suitable aerobic exercise at an intensity that can provide health benefits for this population.

Study Duration

2 years

Participants

24 (22 men and 2 women) with chronic SCI (AIS A-C), all wheelchair users

Evidence Level

Cross-sectional study

Key Findings

1
Participants spent approximately 30 of 45 minutes of exergaming at moderate or high intensity.
2
On average, participants exercised 24.5 minutes at moderate intensity (>50–80% VO2peak) and 6.6 minutes at high intensity (>80% VO2peak).
3
The achieved exercise time at a moderate intensity was not significantly different when comparing the three exergames/games consoles being used.

Research Summary

This study investigated the exercise intensity achieved during exergaming in wheelchair-dependent individuals with spinal cord injury, finding that participants could exercise at moderate to high intensity for a considerable amount of time. The ability to attain moderate exercise intensities during exergaming was not significantly influenced by lesion level, CRF level, or the type of exergame played. The authors conclude that exergaming is a promising aerobic exercise mode for this population and propose it as an accessible and inexpensive option for home-based exercise.

Practical Implications

Accessible Exercise Option

Exergaming can serve as a motivating and easily accessible exercise option for wheelchair-dependent individuals with SCI.

Meeting Exercise Guidelines

45 minutes of exergaming twice a week can potentially help individuals with SCI meet recommended physical activity guidelines.

Home-Based Rehabilitation

Exergaming can be integrated into home-based rehabilitation programs, providing a convenient way to improve fitness.

Study Limitations

1
Person-dependent factors such as interest, motivation, and experience with console gaming, may have influenced their exercise intensity during exergaming.
2
The study was executed at a hospital, not a true home environment.
3
Only one participant experienced shoulder pain throughout the 45 min exergame session. Therefore, untrained wheelchair- dependent persons with SCI should possibly start with shorter exercise sessions, to avoid overuse injuries.

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