Energy Expenditure And Intensity Of Exergaming Among Young Adults With Down Syndrome

PURPOSE: Adults with Down Syndrome (DS) face unique barriers to MVPA. Exergames are a home-based exercise option that has shown effectiveness for increasing MVPA in typically developed populations. Limited research exists investigating recent exergaming technology for energy expenditure among populations with DS. The purpose of this study was to investigate energy expenditure and intensity among young adults with DS within a lab-based setting utilizing updated, exergaming technology (Nintendo SwitchTM hardware and Ring-Fit AdventureTM software). METHODS: Energy expenditure was assessed using a COSMED K4b2 (Pensacola, FL) indirect calorimeter. This previously validated, lightweight (~1.5 kg) open-circuit, portable indirect calorimeter measures breath-by-breath ventilation and concentration of expired oxygen and carbon dioxide. Heart rate was assessed by a Polar (RS400; Polar Electro Inc.) HR monitory. HR during sessions was recorded in 15-second epochs and downloaded to a computer for analysis. Each participant was instructed to complete two “levels” within the game, each participant completed the same two levels. Estimated % max HR was calculated using a previously validated DS specific equation: (210 - 0.56 x age - 31). RESULTS: 20 adults with DS (M age = 24.28, 85% non-Hispanic white, 65% female) participated and completed the energy expenditure assessment. Average session length was 10.18 minutes ±4.49. Average METs for all sessions was 3.33 ± .89. Average energy expenditure of these sessions was 4.02 kcal/min ± 1.11. Average HR during these sessions was 108.98 ± 13.59, which led to an estimated %max HR of 66.05 ± 8.07. CONCLUSION: All participants were able to complete the assessment and no adverse events occurred. The average METs, energy expenditure, and estimated % max HR values all indicate moderate exercise. The present study contributes significantly to the limited amount of literature on exergaming technology on energy expenditure and intensity. A future study of a home-based, exergaming intervention is warranted for MVPA promotion among young adults with DS. Healthy Weight Research Network for Children with ASD/DD Pilot Award (UA3MC25735). Center for Children's Healthy Lifestyles and Nutrition Pilot Award (No number).