Xbox Kinect™ represents high intensity exercise for adults with cystic fibrosis

Background: Exercise is important for patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). Interactive gaming consoles are a new trend in exercise. This study sought to determine the exercise intensity of training using the Xbox Kinect (TM). Methods: Participants with CF completed two sessions separated by 10 days. The first session involved a cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) to measure peak exercise capacity. The second session involved 20 min of exercise using the Xbox Kinect (TM). Results: Ten participants (median [interquartile range] FEV1 58 [46]%, 29 [6] years, 6 males) completed the study. The average heart rate over the final 10 min of exercise using the Xbox Kinect (TM), expressed as a percentage of the peak heart rate achieved on the CPET, was 86% (95% confidence interval, 81 to 92%). Conclusions: Training using the Xbox Kinect (TM) represents high intensity exercise for adults with CF and may be a suitable alternative to conventional exercise modalities. (C) 2013 European Cystic Fibrosis Society. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.