Get Fit with Ring-Fit Adventure™: Physiological Outcomes of a Novel Active Video Game Intervention among Women

Abstract

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of the Nintendo Switch™ active video game, Ring Fit Adventure™, on body composition, muscular strength, and cardiorespiratory endurance in adult women.

Methods: 15 adult women participated in Ring Fit Adventure™ gameplay twice a week, for 45 minutes over eight weeks (total of 16 sessions). Body composition was measured by the iDexa, muscular strength was assessed by the handgrip test, and cardiorespiratory endurance was measured by the YMCA step test.

Results: Paired samples t-tests from pre-post revealed a significant increase in lean mass (p = 0.02), and bone mineral density (p = 0.01). There was a non-signi?cant decrease in fat mass (p = 0.35). A significant increase was noted for dominant handgrip (p < 0.001), non-dominant handgrip strength (p = 0.001), and a significant increase in heart rate recovery (p = 0.001).

Conclusions: A short-term intervention utilizing Ring Fit Adventure™ resulted in significant body composition and fitness changes for adult women. Future studies would benefit from diversifying the sample and exploring the benefits of an at-home intervention.