Gamification for Obesity
(STEP 4 Vets Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how game-like strategies can help Veterans become more active by having them work together or compete. The goal is to determine if these methods boost physical activity and improve health for Veterans struggling with obesity and high blood pressure. Participants will receive a FitBit to track their progress and join groups that either compete or collaborate through behaviorally designed gamification. Veterans with a body mass index above 30, a high blood pressure reading over 140, and an interest in a long-term exercise program might be well-suited for this study. As an unphased study, this trial offers Veterans a unique opportunity to explore innovative ways to enhance their health and fitness.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It focuses on physical activity and gamification for obesity.
What prior data suggests that this gamification method is safe for promoting physical activity?
Research has shown that using game-like elements, such as teamwork or friendly competition, is generally safe and well-received. Studies have found that these programs can help people make healthy lifestyle changes without causing major side effects. For instance, trials demonstrated that using games to encourage exercise leads to positive outcomes, such as increased physical activity. Participants often use devices like FitBits to track their activity, and the game aspect adds motivation through friendly competition or collaboration.
While researchers continue to study these methods, the lack of serious side effects in past research suggests they are safe for most people. Participants often report enjoying the interactive nature of the programs, which makes staying active more fun and engaging. Overall, using game-like elements in health programs appears to be a promising and safe way to increase physical activity among different groups, including Veterans.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about these gamification strategies for obesity because they offer a fresh approach to weight management by incorporating interactive and engaging elements into lifestyle changes. Unlike traditional methods like dieting and exercise programs, these gamified treatments use FitBits and game-based challenges to motivate participants through competition or collaboration. This approach taps into social dynamics and personal goals, potentially making weight loss efforts more enjoyable and sustainable. By transforming the weight loss journey into a game, these methods aim to enhance motivation and adherence, which could lead to more effective and lasting results.
What evidence suggests that this trial's gamification methods could be effective for increasing physical activity in Veterans?
This trial will compare two gamification approaches to increase physical activity: one using competition and the other using collaboration. Studies have shown that game-like features can effectively boost physical activity. Research indicates that adding competition to these games is particularly effective, leading to significant increases in physical activity over time. One study found that competition was the most effective strategy compared to others like collaboration or support. Similarly, teaming up in these games also boosts physical activity as participants work towards shared fitness goals. Overall, games with social elements like competition or teamwork can encourage more activity, which is important for managing obesity.12467
Who Is on the Research Team?
Scott R Greysen, MD
Principal Investigator
Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA
Amol S. Navathe, MD PhD
Principal Investigator
Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for Veterans aged 18 or older with obesity (BMI > 30) and high blood pressure (systolic >140mm Hg), who are interested in a 9-month physical activity program. It's not suitable for those already very active (over 7500 steps/day), in another study, unable to walk without help, or for whom the program is unsafe.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Intervention
Participants engage in a 6-month gamification intervention to increase physical activity, using wearable devices to monitor activity levels.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in physical activity, weight, and blood pressure after the intervention.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Behaviorally Designed Gamification with Collaboration
- Behaviorally Designed Gamification with Competition
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
VA Office of Research and Development
Lead Sponsor