UA testing obesity app for kids

Posted: May 5, 2010 10:38 AM
Updated: May 5, 2010 10:38 AM

TUCSON - It's so stealth-like, you're kids won't even care that they're being enticed to exercise.

A cell phone application, being developed and tested at the U of A, that targets 12 to 18 years old for exercise. An app against obesity, if you will.

Melanie Hingle, Stealth Health's project manager says, "They're not thinking about 'oh this is an exercise activity.' Just kind of the idea of getting kids outside, using technology. Getting them used to their surroundings. Their community. Getting them engaged in their community."

This is year two of a three year study to see if GPS-style games on a smartphone can inspire health.
Scott Going, with Stealth Health says, "We wanted to target kids, the 70 percent or so, who don't always join official programs."

Researchers will gather actual data this summer. So far, so good.

Noam Afek, a study participant, says "I thought it was fun. A lot of running involved, but overall fun."

The cash is coming in through a USDA grant. Already, researchers say, the YMCA and 4H have signed on, to get involved next year.