Effect of interactive exergame training on physical fitness and executive function among men with substance use disorder in rehabilitation center

Background

Substance use disorder (SUD) is a chronic disease characterized by drug seeking and use that is compulsive or difficult to control despite harmful consequences. Researchers have found treatments to help people recover from SUD and lead productive lives. Exercise therapies have been approved to be effective on executive function, physical fitness, and cravings in men with SUD. Exergaming, which involves physical activity through interactive video games, has attracted considerable interest due to its ability to provide a fun and engaging aerobic workout while stimulating cognitive functions. However, despite its popularity in recreational settings and its potential to promote physical fitness and cognitive well-being, the use of exergaming as a therapeutic modality for SUD remains relatively underexplored. This study aimed to investigate the effects of exergame on physical fitness and executive function in men with SUD.

Methods

The 44 compulsory men in a rehabilitation center (mean age = 39.7 ± 9.2 years) were divided to either an exergame training (ET) or a control group. The ET group underwent a moderate-intensity (65%–75% of maximum heart rate) exergame training intervention (Fitness Boxing 2 & Super Mario Party) for 50 min thrice weekly during a 12-week period. The control group maintained their original lifestyle in the rehabilitation center. Before and after the intervention, participants were evaluated for drug craving, executive function (working memory and attention bias), and physical fitness (blood biochemical, choice reaction time, and BMI et al.).

Results

The exergame training group showed a significantly positive effect in drug craving and attention bias score, relative to the control group (drug craving: F = 4.374, p = 0.043, d = − 0.51; attention bias score: F = 4.832, p = 0.034, d = − 0.357). No significant effect has been found in other variables (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

The 12-week interactive exergame training can effectively reduce drug craving and improve executive function in men with SUD in drug rehabilitation centers. This training may offer a new and alternative exercise treatment against SUD. Exercise treatment approaches tailored to men with SUD may lead to continued recovery in health and lower the risk of returning to substance use.