Exergaming to improve physical, psychological and cognitive health among home office workers: A COVID-19 pandemic commentary

Work. 2022;71(1):13-17. doi: 10.3233/WOR-211000.

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in increased sedentary behaviour and poorer health among office workers. Exergaming is a technology-driven mode of exercise that can improve health while physically distancing.

Objective: The purpose of this commentary was to explain the benefits of exergaming on physical function, psychological health, and cognition among office workers.

Results: Exergaming improves these health outcomes, reduces pain, and decreases the risk for chronic disease. It is easily accessible on smart devices and can be performed both indoors and outdoors.

Conclusions: Twenty-one minutes of exergaming per day can improve health outcomes and reduce the risk of pain and disease. Employers and policy-makers should consider promoting exergaming among office workers.

Keywords: COVID-19; Exercise; middle-age; sedentary behaviour; video games.

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19*
  • Cognition
  • Exergaming
  • Humans
  • Pandemics
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Video Games*