The effect of Xbox Kinect intervention on balance ability for previously injured young competitive male athletes: a preliminary study.

OBJECTIVES

To explore the outcomes of an Xbox Kinect intervention on balance ability, enjoyment and compliance for previously injured young competitive male athletes.

DESIGN

Experimental pre-/post-test design with random assignment.

PARTICIPANTS

Sixty-three previously injured young competitive male athletes, aged 16 ± 1 years.

INTERVENTIONS

Participants were divided into three groups: one group received Xbox Kinect (XbK) training, one group received Traditional physiotherapy (TP) training, and one group did not receive any balance training (Control). Intervention involved a 24 min session, twice weekly for 10 weeks.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Overall stability index (OSI) and limits of stability (LOS) scores using the Biodex Stability System. Enjoyment using the Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale. Self-reported compliance.

RESULTS

Both experimental groups demonstrated an improvement in OSI and LOS mean scores for the right and the left limb after the intervention. In addition, the results revealed important differences between the experimental groups and the control group on balance test indices. Group enjoyment rating was greater for XbK compared with TP, while the compliance rating was not.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that the use of XbK intervention is a valuable, feasible and pleasant approach in order to improve balance ability of previously injured young competitive male athletes.