Pilot project: Physiologic responses to a high‐intensity active video game with COPD patients–Tools for home rehabilitation

Introduction Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a respiratory condition that causes a significant deterioration of the quality of life. However, exercise can improve the quality of life for COPD patients and it is for this reason previous study observed the effects of active video games to increase exercise. Using motion capture devices with short bursts of exercise never been tried with COPD patients. Objectives The objective was to observe the feasibility of using this device safely and easily with COPD patients. Methods A total of 14 participants (8 men, 69 ± 6 years, 6 women, 74 ± 6 years), with a moderate to severe COPD diagnosis performed exercise games (Shape‐Up, Ubisoft, Mtl) adapted under supervision. Gaming sessions of 10‐15 min duration were composed of four games of about 1.5 min separated by rest. Results Average and peak minute ventilation, and METs peak were, respectively: Stunt Run game (lifting knees on spot) 25.3 ± 6.8, 33.5 ± 8.2 L/min and 4.2 ± 1.5 METs; Arctic Punch game (punching targets): 23.1 ± 5.6, 31.8 ± 9.8 L/min and 3.7 ± 1.2 METs; To the Core game (core twist), 22.2 ± 7.3, 29.2 ± 9.9 L/min and 3.3 ± 1.1 METs; and Squat me to the Moon game (sitting to standing), 27.8 ± 6.7, 36.8 ± 11.1 L/min and 4.4 ± 1.1 METs. Conclusion Knowing the pleasure reported by the participants, the safety, and the ability to use it with assistance, it seems that the games could be a good tool in order for COPD patients to exercise at home. However, further investigation needs to be completed in order to observe the benefits in comparison to a traditional training program.