Combining gamified cognitive training and walking (Walk and Play): A pilot study

Cognitive training and physical activity independently provide benefits in cognitive functioning. However, less is known about the benefits of combining sustained cognitive and physical activity training. The Walk and Play pilot randomized controlled trial compares the preliminary efficacy of combining daily walking and gamified inhibitory control training on cognitive and physical activity outcomes among individuals endorsing cognitive challenges. After a seven-day run-in period, participants were randomly assigned to one of two conditions for three weeks: (1) daily 30-min walks (Walk) or (2) alternating between 30-min walks and 30-min app-based cognitive training (Walk and Play). Participants (n=32; Mage = 61) were majority women (84%), who reported cancer-related cognitive challenges (75%). Participants completed a computer-based cognitive battery at baseline and post-intervention and wore Fitbit devices to monitor physical activity metrics. Daily step count significantly increased in both study arms. The Walk & Play group showed a significant increase in daily active minutes (p=.014), while Walk participants had a significant reduction in daily sedentary time (p=.0006). Walk & Play participants’ performance improved on Rule Switch [t(15) = -3.05, p = 0.028], UCancellation [t(15) = -3.61, p = 0.007], and Corsi [t(15) = -2.91, p = 0.04] tasks. Post-intervention Rule Switch task performance was also significantly higher in the Walk & Play group than in the Walk group [t(15) = 3.15, p = 0.019]. Combining daily walking and gamified inhibitory control training is feasible and promising as a digital, scalable solution for promoting cognitive health and physical activity.