NCT07322952

Gamified Tai Chi Intervention to Improve Executive Function in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Randomized Controlled Trial of a Gamified Tai Chi Intervention to Improve Executive Function in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder

• Status: Active Not Recruiting
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 223 (actual)
• Sponsor: Jinan University Guangzhou · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: 8 Years – 15 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

This randomized controlled trial evaluates the effectiveness of a "Gamified Tai Chi" intervention on improving executive functions (such as inhibitory control, working memory, and cognitive flexibility) in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The study aims to determine whether integrating game mechanics (based on the Mechanics, Dynamics, and Aesthetics framework) into Tai Chi training offers superior benefits compared to traditional Tai Chi training or routine care. Approximately 200 children aged 8-15 years will be randomly assigned to one of three groups for a 12 months period: Gamified Tai Chi Group: Participants will attend sessions combining simplified Tai Chi forms with interactive tasks, such as digital chasing games and cooperative challenges, using a point-based reward system to enhance engagement. Traditional Tai Chi Group: Participants will learn the same Tai Chi movements but via standard instruction methods without gamification elements. Control Group: Participants will continue their routine rehabilitation or physical education classes (Waitlist design). Assessors who are blinded to group allocation will evaluate outcomes at baseline and post-intervention using standardized cognitive tasks (e.g., Flanker task, 1-back task) and behavioral questionnaires regarding social functioning and daily living skills.

Conditions

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
BEHAVIORAL	Gamified Tai Chi Program	Participants will receive a 12 months Gamified Tai Chi intervention (3 sessions/week, 45 mins/session). The intervention integrates the MDA (Mechanics, Dynamics, Aesthetics) framework and exergaming elements into traditional Tai Chi movements to target executive functions.
BEHAVIORAL	Traditional Tai Chi Group	Participants will receive a 12 months standard Traditional Tai Chi training (3 sessions/week, 45 mins/session). This group performs the same physical movements as the experimental group but without any gamification, scoring systems, or interactive game scenarios.

Timeline

• Start date: 2025-02-01
• Primary completion: 2026-02-01
• Completion: 2026-02-01
• First posted: 2026-01-07
• Last updated: 2026-01-07

Locations

1 site across 1 country: China