Background:
Physical exercise has the potential to affect cognitive function, but most evidence to datefocuses on cognitive effects of fitness training. Cognitive exercise also may influencecognitive function, but many cognitive training paradigms have failed to provide carry-overto daily cognitive function. Video games provide a broader, more contextual approach tocognitive training that may induce cognitive gains and have carry over to daily function.Most video games do not involve physical exercise, but some novel forms of interactivevideo games combine physical activity and cognitive challenge.
Methods:
This paper describes a randomized clinical trial in 168 postmenopausal sedentary overweightwomen that compares an interactive video dance game with brisk walking and delayed entrycontrols. The primary endpoint is adherence to activity at six months. Additional endpointsinclude aspects of physical and mental health. We focus this report primarily on the rationaleand plans for assessment of multiple cognitive functions.DiscussionThis randomized clinical trial may provide new information about the cognitive effects ofinteractive videodance. It is also the first trial to examine physical and cognitive effects inolder women. Interactive video games may offer novel strategies to promote physical activityand health across the life span.The study is IRB approved and the number is: PRO08080012ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01443455