Research findings reveal a majority of students engage in video game play in the realm of electronic sports.
In a joint venture between Solingen and Bergische University Wuppertal, a research project has been launched to explore the long-term health implications for gamers within the eSports sector. The project, initiated two years ago by Bergische Health Insurance and the Chair of Sports Medicine at Bergische University Wuppertal, aims to develop a scientifically grounded, health-promoting training program for gamers.
The research project, which will continue until the end of 2025, is focused on understanding the physical strain associated with gaming and its potential impact on the health of gamers. Initial results from a sub-study conducted among students indicate that gaming plays an increasingly important role in society, with 70.7% of respondents in the study being video game players.
While gamers are known to sit for longer periods and have higher screen time, the initial findings suggest that they do not show a higher pain prevalence compared to non-gamers. However, the sub-study also indicates that gaming may result in physical strain, with 76.6% of respondents reporting experiencing pain, particularly in the head, neck, and lower back.
To ensure comprehensive data collection, the study participants' health parameters will be collected continuously throughout the study project. Objective health parameters, such as posture, cardiovascular, and stress parameters, will be monitored. The study project will also collect data on the gaming habits of participants, including the frequency and duration of gaming sessions.
Jan Römer, health advisor at BERGISCHE, is pleased with the initial insights from the study, which will form the basis for the health-promoting training program for gamers. Markus Soffner, who is overseeing the project at Bergische University, believes that the collaboration will promote long-term health in the gaming community and raise awareness for healthy gaming.
For those interested in delving deeper into the specific studies, findings, and expert conclusions about the long-term health implications for gamers based on this joint research project, academic publications or official reports directly from Bergische Universität Wuppertal or Solingen health departments are recommended.
- The joint research project between Solingen and Bergische University Wuppertal aims to develop a fitness-and-exercise program for gamers based on scientific findings about the health implications of gaming.
- The study project is also collecting data on gadgets and smartphones used by participants for gaming, to gain insights into the role of technology in the physical strain experienced by gamers.
- The sports-analysis conducted as part of the research project found that while gamers do not show a higher pain prevalence compared to non-gamers in general, they may experience physical strain, particularly in the head, neck, and lower back.
- The health-and-wellness implications of eSports are being explored through this collaborative research, with the goal of promoting long-term health and raising awareness for healthy gaming habits.
