Regular movement is promoted as an effective way to lead a balanced life and take care of our
well-being. But did you know it can also help people with a wide spectrum of medical
conditions?
Led by the Catholic University of Valencia (USC), DART is an innovative European project that
combines physical activity, social inclusion, and digital tools to improve the quality of life for
people with type I and II diabetes.
DART stands for Diabetes-Augmented Reality Training. The project is based on the idea that
sport and physical activity are not only a way to improve physical fitness but also a
comprehensive tool to enhance metabolic health, personal motivation, and health education
for people living with diabetes. To achieve these objectives, DART combines innovative digital
tools, electronic training modules, and awareness-raising events, offering an educational,
motivating, and personalised experience for users, families, healthcare professionals, and
trainers. The main platform for this project is a mobile application available in seven languages,
compatible with both Android and iOS devices.
The application features:
- An augmented reality personal trainer – a virtual hologram that appears in the userโs
room, office, or classroom. It demonstrates how to perform exercises recommended
for their type of diabetes, providing voice instructions and detailed explanations of the
benefits of each exercise. - Precautions to be taken before, during, and after each exercise.
- A personalised calendar for tracking measurements, medications, and medical
appointments. It also includes personalised insulin dose reminders. - Geolocation to suggest nearby parks for outdoor physical activity.
What really sets this app apart is a specially designed โTree of Lifeโ programme, which turns
training into a motivating and eco-friendly game. In this game, users grow a digital tree as they
complete their daily exercise routine. The programme consists of 30 sessions (5 exercises per
day, up to 30 minutes each) and includes 50 different exercises with strategic repetition and
progressive increases in difficulty and complexity. To ensure this programme is available to
anyone who wishes to participate, no special sports equipment is required.
The best part? Upon completion, a real tree is planted, encouraging global reforestation
efforts.
The DART project involves 7 institutions from 6 European countries: Spain, Greece, Italy,
Portugal, Croatia, and Romania. All participants bring expertise in sport, education, medicine,
and technology, ensuring a comprehensive and collaborative approach. The programme also
features additional content for educators, professionals and affected families, including
podcasts, electronic modules, awareness events and live broadcasts.
To learn more about DART and how to get involved, visit https://dartproject.eu/es/.
