BalanceNCT07596225
Effects of Kinect-Based Exergaming Versus Wii Fit Training on Balance and Fall Risk Among Healthy Older Adults
A study testing Virtual Reality Balance Training and Wii Fit balance training in people with Balance and Fall Risk, run by Foundation University Islamabad at 1 site in Pakistan.
Trial summary
Study, titled Effects of Kinect-Based Exergaming versus Wii Fit on Balance and Fall Risk among Healthy Older Adults, is a randomized controlled trial comparing the balance training effects of Xbox Kinect and Wii Fit. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 55 to 85 years
- What is being tested?
- Virtual Reality Balance Training and Wii Fit balance training
- Type of treatment
- Surgery or procedure
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 46 participants
- Where
- 1 sitePakistan
- Study dates
- 5 May 2026to 15 Jul 2026
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- None posted in the registry
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 55 to 85 years
- All sexes
- No healthy volunteers
- Adult, Older adult
Who may be able to join
- Older adults aged ≥55, community-dwelling, with a BBS score between 21-50, including both mild to moderate Risk falls
- Able to stand without assistive devices
- Cognitively able to follow instructions, with a MoCA score ≥ 22
- Both Genders: Males and females
Who cannot join
- History of Neurological disorders affecting balance (e.g., Parkinson's disease, stroke)
- Acute Vestibular disorders/Major Musculoskeletal impairments (e.g., Arthritis)
- Participation in other balance training programs within the past 6 months
- Any condition posing a safety risk (e.g., severe osteoporosis, uncontrolled hypertension
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country.
Pakistan1 site
Foundation University College of Physical Therapy
Islamabad, Punjab Province, 44000
About this study
Study, titled Effects of Kinect-Based Exergaming versus Wii Fit on Balance and Fall Risk among Healthy Older Adults, is a randomized controlled trial comparing the balance training effects of Xbox Kinect and Wii Fit.
After obtaining informed consent, 46 healthy older adults will be randomly allocated (1:1) using sealed envelopes to a 6-week training program in either group. Static, Dynamic, and Anticipatory balance will be assessed at baseline and post-intervention using the Biodex Balance System for objective comparison.
Read the detailed description
Balance is a complex, multidimensional concept related to postural control, referring essentially to the ability to maintain a stable posture. Each year, an estimated 37.3 million individuals experience a fall that requires hospitalization and may lead to severe injuries, such as fractures and traumatic brain injuries. Traditional balance exercises reduce fall risk but may have low long-term adherence in seniors. The introduction of VR-based games engages participants in interactive balance exercises.
The objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of Kinect-based exergaming compared to Wii Fit balance training on reducing fall risk in elderly individuals, focusing on parameters of Fall incidence, as well as Static, Dynamic, and Anticipatory balance.
The study will be a non-blinded Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT), consisting of 2 groups. The Study will be conducted over 1 year at the Multidisciplinary Development Lab (MDL) of the Foundation University College of Physical Therapy (FUCP).
A calculated sample of 46 subjects will be selected via a non-probability convenience sampling technique, followed by randomization in a 1:1 ratio to Group A (Kinect-based exergaming) or Group B (Wii Fit) using the sealed-envelope method.
After CBRC registration, ethical approval will be obtained from the Ethical Review Commitee (ERC) of Foundation University Medical College (FUMC).
Individuals fulfilling the inclusion criteria will be selected, followed by written informed consent after explaining the study purpose. Participants will then be randomly allocated to one of the 2 groups.
At baseline, investigators will assess postural control using the Postural Stability System and balance confidence using the Falls Efficacy Scale. Objective static and dynamic balance will be evaluated using the Berg Balance Scale, while cognitive function will be assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA).
One group will be provided with Kinect-based exer-gaming balance training. The second group will be provided with the Wii Fit Balance Training. Exercise training would be performed over a 6-week intervention period, administering exercise training 3 days per week. All outcome measurements would be performed before and after the 6-week intervention period. Data will be entered and analyzed on SPSS v. 22.
- Being tested
- Virtual Reality Balance Training, Wii Fit balance training
- Keywords
- Postural Balance, Postural Control, Accidental Falls, Risk factors, Aged, virtual reality, video games, rehabilitation
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Virtual Reality Balance TrainingProcedure or surgery
The total duration of the intervention protocol is 6 weeks. However, progression depends on the participant's comfort, performance, and adaptation to the training tasks. Training sessions will be done 3 days a week for 40- 50 minutes/day (18). Group 1 will receive Kinect-based exergaming balance training. Warm-up exercise will be for 5 minutes, including gentle stretching exercises, and 5 minutes will be given for a cool down, including deep breathing exercises
Group (A) / (Kinect-based Exergaming balance training):
- 20,000 leaks
- Reflex ridge
- River rush
- Rally ball
Wii Fit balance trainingProcedure or surgery
The total duration of the intervention protocol is 6 weeks. However, progression depends on the participant's comfort, performance, and adaptation to the training tasks. Training sessions will be done 3 days a week for 40- 50 minutes/day (18). Group 2 will receive Wii Fit balance training. Warm-up exercise will be for 5 minutes, including gentle stretching exercises, and 5 minutes will be given for a cool down, including deep breathing exercises
Group (B) / Wii Fit balance training:
- Soccer header
- Lotus Focus(Minimal)
- Tightrope Walk
- Ski slalom
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Group A | Experimental | Participants in this group will engage in four interactive mini-games from the Kinect Adventures collection, specifically selected for their dynamic full-body demands:
Games will be
1. 20,000 leaks
2. Reflex ridge
3. River rush and
4. Rally ball The total duration of the intervention protocol is 6 weeks. However, progression depends on the participant's comfort, performance, and adaptation to the training tasks. Training sessions will be done 3 days a week for 40-50 minutes/day Receives: Procedure: Virtual Reality Balance Training |
| Group B | Experimental | Participants in this group will engage in four interactive games , specifically selected for their dynamic full-body demands.These games collectively target key balance components,static control, dynamic adjustment, and anticipatory balance Games will be
1. Lotus focus
2. Soccer header,
3. Tight rope walk and
4. Ski slalom. The total duration of the intervention protocol is 6 weeks. However, progression depends on the participant's comfort, performance, and adaptation to the training tasks. Training sessions will be done 3 days a week for 40-50 minutes/day. Receives: Procedure: Wii Fit balance training |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Postural stability
Static postural stability will be assessed using the Biodex Balance System SD at stability level 12. The Overall Stability Index (OSI) measures the variance of platform displacement during static standing. The Overall Stability Index (OSI) is expressed in degrees. Lower OSI values indicate better postural stability and reduced postural sway, whereas higher values indicate impaired balance control.
Assessment will be performed at baseline and after 6 weeks of intervention. Intervention will be conducted 3 sessions per week for 6 weeks, with each session lasting 30-45 minutes
Measured: 6 weeks.
Balance
Berg Balance scale will be used. 5-point ordinal scale (graded 0-4), Max score = 56 41-56 = low fall risk, 21-40 = medium fall risk, 0 -20 = high fall risk R=0.88-0.98.
Measured: 6 weeks
Concern of Fall
Fall Efficacy Scale will be used. 16 items Questionnaire. Individuals are instructed to score their concern of falling during an activity. Performed at the start of the treatment protocol, and after 8 weeks at the end of the intervention
1 as not concerned at all and 4 as very concerned. The item scores are summed up to obtain a total of 64. 16 = no concern about falling, > 16 = concern about falling
Measured: 6 weeks
Cognition
Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) A 30-item global cognitive screening tool scored from 0-30. Higher scores indicate better cognition.
26-30: Normal cognition 18-25: Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) 10-17: Moderate cognitive impairment
≤ 9: Severe cognitive impairment One extra point is added for individuals with ≤12 years of formal education to adjust for educational bias
Measured: 6 weeks
Dynamic balance
Dynamic balance will be assessed using the Biodex Balance System SD at stability level 6 under unstable surface conditions. Balance performance will be quantified using the Overall Stability Index (OSI). The Overall Stability Index (OSI) is expressed in degrees.Lower OSI scores represent improved dynamic balance and neuromuscular control, whereas higher values indicate poorer balance performance.
Assessment will be performed at baseline and after 6 weeks of intervention. Intervention will be conducted 3 sessions per week for 6 weeks, with each session lasting 30-45 minutes
Measured: 6 weeks
Limits of Stability
Limits of Stability testing will be used to assess the participant's ability to intentionally displace the center of pressure toward visual targets without losing balance. Higher LOS scores indicate better anticipatory postural control and balance performance, whereas lower scores indicate impaired balance ability.
Assessment will be performed at baseline and after 6 weeks of intervention. Intervention will be conducted 3 sessions per week for 6 weeks, with each session lasting 30-45 minutes
Measured: 6 weeks
Fall Risk Index
The Fall Risk Test using the Biodex Balance System will assess the participant's risk of falls under progressively unstable conditions. Higher Fall Risk Index scores indicate greater fall risk and poorer balance ability, whereas lower scores indicate improved balance and reduced fall risk.
Assessment will be performed at baseline and after 6 weeks of intervention.
Measured: 6 week
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted19 May 2026
- Study start5 May 2026
- Primary completion1 Jul 2026
- Study completion15 Jul 2026
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for BalanceStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- More trials run by Foundation University IslamabadThe sponsor's other registered studies.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Model description
- This study is a randomized controlled trial which will consists of two groups .one will receive kinect based exergaming and the second will recieve Wiifit balance training .both groups will be recruitted concurrently
- Masking
- Single blind
- Who is masked
- Outcomes assessor
- Enrolment
- 46 participants (actual)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Foundation University Islamabad
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Sponsor
- Investigators
- Nayab Khan, DPT, Principal investigator, Foundation University Islamabad
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07596225
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- FUI/FUCP/CTR/Neuro2/Nayyab
- Status last verified
- Jul 2026
- First submitted
- 4 May 2026
- Last updated
- 27 Jul 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 27 Jul 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Effects of Kinect-Based Exergaming Versus Wii Fit Training on Balance and Fall Risk Among Healthy Older Adults
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07596225
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- FUI/FUCP/CTR/Neuro2/Nayyab
- Keywords
- Postural Balance, Postural Control, Accidental Falls, Risk factors, Aged, virtual reality, video games, rehabilitation
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Completed
- Enrolment
- 46 participants (actual)
- Lead sponsor
- Foundation University IslamabadUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 5 May 2026 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 1 Jul 2026 (actual)
- Study completion
- 15 Jul 2026 (actual)
- First posted
- 19 May 2026 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
Study, titled Effects of Kinect-Based Exergaming versus Wii Fit on Balance and Fall Risk among Healthy Older Adults, is a randomized controlled trial comparing the balance training effects of Xbox Kinect and Wii Fit.
After obtaining informed consent, 46 healthy older adults will be randomly allocated (1:1) using sealed envelopes to a 6-week training program in either group. Static, Dynamic, and Anticipatory balance will be assessed at baseline and post-intervention using the Biodex Balance System for objective comparison.
Detailed description
Balance is a complex, multidimensional concept related to postural control, referring essentially to the ability to maintain a stable posture. Each year, an estimated 37.3 million individuals experience a fall that requires hospitalization and may lead to severe injuries, such as fractures and traumatic brain injuries. Traditional balance exercises reduce fall risk but may have low long-term adherence in seniors. The introduction of VR-based games engages participants in interactive balance exercises.
The objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of Kinect-based exergaming compared to Wii Fit balance training on reducing fall risk in elderly individuals, focusing on parameters of Fall incidence, as well as Static, Dynamic, and Anticipatory balance.
The study will be a non-blinded Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT), consisting of 2 groups. The Study will be conducted over 1 year at the Multidisciplinary Development Lab (MDL) of the Foundation University College of Physical Therapy (FUCP).
A calculated sample of 46 subjects will be selected via a non-probability convenience sampling technique, followed by randomization in a 1:1 ratio to Group A (Kinect-based exergaming) or Group B (Wii Fit) using the sealed-envelope method.
After CBRC registration, ethical approval will be obtained from the Ethical Review Commitee (ERC) of Foundation University Medical College (FUMC).
Individuals fulfilling the inclusion criteria will be selected, followed by written informed consent after explaining the study purpose. Participants will then be randomly allocated to one of the 2 groups.
At baseline, investigators will assess postural control using the Postural Stability System and balance confidence using the Falls Efficacy Scale. Objective static and dynamic balance will be evaluated using the Berg Balance Scale, while cognitive function will be assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA).
One group will be provided with Kinect-based exer-gaming balance training. The second group will be provided with the Wii Fit Balance Training. Exercise training would be performed over a 6-week intervention period, administering exercise training 3 days per week. All outcome measurements would be performed before and after the 6-week intervention period. Data will be entered and analyzed on SPSS v. 22.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind (outcomes assessor)
- Number of arms
- 2
- Model description
- This study is a randomized controlled trial which will consists of two groups .one will receive kinect based exergaming and the second will recieve Wiifit balance training .both groups will be recruitted concurrently
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Group A | Experimental | Procedure: Virtual Reality Balance TrainingParticipants in this group will engage in four interactive mini-games from the Kinect Adventures collection, specifically selected for their dynamic full-body demands: Games will be 1. 20,000 leaks 2. Reflex ridge 3. River rush and 4. Rally ball The total duration of the intervention protocol is 6 weeks. However, progression depends on the participant's comfort, performance, and adaptation to the training tasks. Training sessions will be done 3 days a week for 40-50 minutes/day |
| Group B | Experimental | Procedure: Wii Fit balance trainingParticipants in this group will engage in four interactive games , specifically selected for their dynamic full-body demands.These games collectively target key balance components,static control, dynamic adjustment, and anticipatory balance Games will be 1. Lotus focus 2. Soccer header, 3. Tight rope walk and 4. Ski slalom. The total duration of the intervention protocol is 6 weeks. However, progression depends on the participant's comfort, performance, and adaptation to the training tasks. Training sessions will be done 3 days a week for 40-50 minutes/day. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 55 to 85 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Not accepted
- Age groups
- Adult, Older adult
Key inclusion criteria (4 listed)
- Older adults aged ≥55, community-dwelling, with a BBS score between 21-50, including both mild to moderate Risk falls
- Able to stand without assistive devices
- Cognitively able to follow instructions, with a MoCA score ≥ 22
- Both Genders: Males and females
Key exclusion criteria (4 listed)
- History of Neurological disorders affecting balance (e.g., Parkinson's disease, stroke)
- Acute Vestibular disorders/Major Musculoskeletal impairments (e.g., Arthritis)
- Participation in other balance training programs within the past 6 months
- Any condition posing a safety risk (e.g., severe osteoporosis, uncontrolled hypertension
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Virtual Reality Balance TrainingThe total duration of the intervention protocol is 6 weeks. However, progression depends on the participant's comfort, performance, and adaptation to the training tasks. Training sessions will be done 3 days a week for 40- 50 minutes/day (18). Group 1 will receive Kinect-based exergaming balance training. Warm-up exercise will be for 5 minutes, including gentle stretching exercises, and 5 minutes will be given for a cool down, including deep breathing exercises Group (A) / (Kinect-based Exergaming balance training): 1. 20,000 leaks 2. Reflex ridge 3. River rush 4. Rally ball | Procedure or surgery | Group A |
| Wii Fit balance trainingThe total duration of the intervention protocol is 6 weeks. However, progression depends on the participant's comfort, performance, and adaptation to the training tasks. Training sessions will be done 3 days a week for 40- 50 minutes/day (18). Group 2 will receive Wii Fit balance training. Warm-up exercise will be for 5 minutes, including gentle stretching exercises, and 5 minutes will be given for a cool down, including deep breathing exercises Group (B) / Wii Fit balance training: 1. Soccer header 2. Lotus Focus(Minimal) 3. Tightrope Walk 4. Ski slalom | Procedure or surgery | Group B |
Primary outcome
Postural stability
Time frame: 6 weeks.
Static postural stability will be assessed using the Biodex Balance System SD at stability level 12. The Overall Stability Index (OSI) measures the variance of platform displacement during static standing. The Overall Stability Index (OSI) is expressed in degrees. Lower OSI values indicate better postural stability and reduced postural sway, whereas higher values indicate impaired balance control. Assessment will be performed at baseline and after 6 weeks of intervention. Intervention will be conducted 3 sessions per week for 6 weeks, with each session lasting 30-45 minutes
Balance
Time frame: 6 weeks
Berg Balance scale will be used. 5-point ordinal scale (graded 0-4), Max score = 56 41-56 = low fall risk, 21-40 = medium fall risk, 0 -20 = high fall risk R=0.88-0.98.
Concern of Fall
Time frame: 6 weeks
Fall Efficacy Scale will be used. 16 items Questionnaire. Individuals are instructed to score their concern of falling during an activity. Performed at the start of the treatment protocol, and after 8 weeks at the end of the intervention 1 as not concerned at all and 4 as very concerned. The item scores are summed up to obtain a total of 64. 16 = no concern about falling, > 16 = concern about falling
Cognition
Time frame: 6 weeks
Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) A 30-item global cognitive screening tool scored from 0-30. Higher scores indicate better cognition. 26-30: Normal cognition 18-25: Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) 10-17: Moderate cognitive impairment ≤ 9: Severe cognitive impairment One extra point is added for individuals with ≤12 years of formal education to adjust for educational bias
Dynamic balance
Time frame: 6 weeks
Dynamic balance will be assessed using the Biodex Balance System SD at stability level 6 under unstable surface conditions. Balance performance will be quantified using the Overall Stability Index (OSI). The Overall Stability Index (OSI) is expressed in degrees.Lower OSI scores represent improved dynamic balance and neuromuscular control, whereas higher values indicate poorer balance performance. Assessment will be performed at baseline and after 6 weeks of intervention. Intervention will be conducted 3 sessions per week for 6 weeks, with each session lasting 30-45 minutes
Limits of Stability
Time frame: 6 weeks
Limits of Stability testing will be used to assess the participant's ability to intentionally displace the center of pressure toward visual targets without losing balance. Higher LOS scores indicate better anticipatory postural control and balance performance, whereas lower scores indicate impaired balance ability. Assessment will be performed at baseline and after 6 weeks of intervention. Intervention will be conducted 3 sessions per week for 6 weeks, with each session lasting 30-45 minutes
Fall Risk Index
Time frame: 6 week
The Fall Risk Test using the Biodex Balance System will assess the participant's risk of falls under progressively unstable conditions. Higher Fall Risk Index scores indicate greater fall risk and poorer balance ability, whereas lower scores indicate improved balance and reduced fall risk. Assessment will be performed at baseline and after 6 weeks of intervention.
Results and safety
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 27 Jul 2026.
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part. This study is not recruiting at the moment.
Nayab Khan, DPT principal investigator
Foundation University Islamabad
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Virtual Reality Balance Training and Wii Fit balance training in people with Balance and Fall Risk, run by Foundation University Islamabad at 1 site in Pakistan.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 4 inclusion and 4 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: finished, as of the sponsor's last update on 27 Jul 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Pakistan. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Postural stability (time frame: 6 weeks.). The study lists 7 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 27 Jul 2026.