Recommendations for Physical Exercise as a Strategy to Reduce Problematic Use of the Internet and Digital Devices: A Perspective

Christel García-Ortiz, Miriam Lorenzo-González, Javier Fernández-Sánchez, Víctor Solano-Lizcano, Juan Del Coso () and Daniel Collado-Mateo ()
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Christel García-Ortiz: Sport Sciences Research Centre, Rey Juan Carlos University, 28943 Fuenlabrada, Spain
Miriam Lorenzo-González: Sport Sciences Research Centre, Rey Juan Carlos University, 28943 Fuenlabrada, Spain
Javier Fernández-Sánchez: Sport Sciences Research Centre, Rey Juan Carlos University, 28943 Fuenlabrada, Spain
Víctor Solano-Lizcano: Sport Sciences Research Centre, Rey Juan Carlos University, 28943 Fuenlabrada, Spain
Juan Del Coso: Sport Sciences Research Centre, Rey Juan Carlos University, 28943 Fuenlabrada, Spain
Daniel Collado-Mateo: Sport Sciences Research Centre, Rey Juan Carlos University, 28943 Fuenlabrada, Spain

IJERPH, 2025, vol. 22, issue 5, 1-15

Abstract: Excessive use of the Internet and digital devices has become a growing public health concern, contributing to mental health issues, sedentary lifestyles, and decreased well-being. Despite the increasing prevalence of digital overuse, there is no consensus on effective interventions to mitigate its impact. This article aimed to provide an updated perspective on current research into problematic use of digital devices and the Internet, and to explore the potential of physical exercise as a key strategy in prevention and treatment programs aimed at reducing such use. Based on the two previous objectives, this study also aimed to provide author-informed recommendations for digital detox interventions, supporting the inclusion of regular exercise, particularly outdoor exercise in natural environments, as a central component of such programs. Thirteen recommendations for physical exercise programs to be included as core parts of digital detox are suggested: (a) the type of physical exercise selected according to the participant’s motivations, (b) exercise intensity and volume adapted to the participant’s characteristics, (c) the avoidance of digital devices during exercise, (d) a duration of ≥12 weeks and ≥3 days/week, (e) the integration of other physical activities for a more active lifestyle, (f) the enhancement of mental health as a main goal, (g) collaborative and competitive physical exercise and sports, (h) the participant’s awareness of the improvements through feedback and information, (i) mindful activities, (j) outdoor physical activities and exercise, especially in natural environments, (k) conducted by multidisciplinary teams, (l) assessments using validated tests and scales, and (m) evaluation of long-term effects. In summary, this perspective article supports the inclusion of physical exercise as a key strategy in digital detox programs by offering recommendations for intervention designs aimed at reducing problematic digital use and enhancing overall well-being in individuals who have developed maladaptive patterns of digital device use.

Keywords: sedentary behavior; behavioral addiction; physical activity; mental health promotion; nature exposure (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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