Interdisciplinary, child-centred collaboration could increase the success of potentially successful Internet-based physical activity interventions

Abstract

Physical activity promotes health in children and adolescents, but activity levels are low. The Internet offers opportunities for physical activity interventions because children and adolescents are widely exposed to the web and enjoy being online. This review investigated the success of Internet-based interventions designed to increase physical activity in children and adolescents. Of the 13 studies we included, five reported that Internet-based interventions had significant effects on most physical activities.

Conclusion: Internet-based physical activity interventions in children and adolescents are potentially successful, but interdisciplinary, child-centred collaboration is needed to design interventions that align with their Internet experiences and preferences.

Keywords: Adolescents; Children; Health; Internet-based interventions; Physical activity.