Wise Move: Community-based gamified physical activity Interventions

ongoing

The WISE MOVE (WM) project aims to drive long-term improvements in physical activity levels across Europe, with a particular focus on economic and socially disadvantaged groups, through a gamification approach which contributes to promote public health, community engagement, and enhance social cohesion and inclusivity. The initiative empowers both adults and children to connect with their local environment—where they live, work, and play—while encouraging small but meaningful changes in daily behaviours. The project generates data-driven insights to support evidence-based policymaking. WM introduces new innovative approaches based on the use of gamification as a tool to drive behavioural change and increase physical activity levels, particularly among socioeconomically disadvantaged groups. Unlike traditional interventions, this project leverages engagement strategies, real-time data tracking, and interactive community challenges to foster long-term habit formation. Many European projects promoting physical activity through gamification are based on digital solutions, such as mobile applications, exergames, and smart technologies, to engage participants and encourage behaviour change. While these approaches have proven effective, they often require access to technology, digital literacy, and engagement with screens, which may not be suitable or accessible for all target groups. The project encourages participants to engage in challenges, interactive experiences, and social activities that promote movement and social cohesion without requiring screen time. The WM project recognises the importance of intergenerational communication in promoting physical activity. As a result of the WM at least 30.000 participants will be directly engaged in pilot activities across three countries, reducing 10% inactivity among participants and reaching 15% percentage increase of participants meeting WHO physical activity recommendations.