State-of-the-art of exergames
An umbrella scoping review
Samenvatting
This umbrella scoping review aims to synthesize existing evidence from systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and scoping reviews on (1) the effects of exergaming on physical activity (PA), sedentary behaviour, energy expenditure (EE), fitness or other physical health outcomes (2) the factors (such as psychological factors) that (positively and negatively) influence these, and (3) the target groups most likely to benefit from exergames.
To guide this synthesis, the following questions are addressed:
1. What are exergames?
What are exergames, and how are they defined? What types of exergames and technologies exist (e.g., gaming consoles, virtual reality, augmented reality, mobile devices)?
2. How are exergames used in practice?
What are the practical applications of exergames in various settings, such as schools, fitness centers, or community sports programs?
3. What is the effect of exergames on physical activity?
What do studies say about the effectiveness of exergames in promoting physical activity, sedentary behavior, energy expenditure, fitness, other physical outcomes, and related psychological outcomes?
4. Which factors influence the effectiveness of exergames?
What are the factors that influence the success of exergames in achieving their goals?
5. Which target groups can (or cannot) benefit from exergames?
For which target groups are exergames most appropriate (e.g., children, adolescents, adults, older adults)?
6. What advantages do exergames offer compared to traditional sports and physical activity?
What are the key advantages of exergames, such as accessibility, increased motivation, at-home convenience, or fun?
7. What are the limitations or disadvantages of exergames?
What are the possible limitations of exergames, such as lower exercise intensity, risk of strain injuries, or financial costs?
This report was prepared by Wageningen University & Research (WUR) to provide scientific input for the development of a factsheet by Kenniscentrum Sport & Bewegen (KcSB).
Literatuurverwijzing: Schwarz, A., & Simons, M. (2025). State-of-the-art of exergames: an umbrella scoping review. Wageningen: Wageningen University & Research (WUR).