Video games have long been vilified as the natural enemy of exercise and fitness. The image of video gamers planted on a couch, controller in hand, eyes focused on the screen promoted the idea that the pastime revolved around sedentary behavior. Interestingly, the direction of an entire segment of the video game industry has led to physically engaged and perpetually moving participants.
Wii and Xbox Kinect
Unlike the traditional video game which involves physical activity limited to hands and fingers working the game controller, the introduction of Nintendo's Wii game system required a complete and constant series of movements to play. The Wii took advantage of this quality to introduce Wii Fit, a series of games and added equipment designed specifically to offer home workout activities. Additionally, the appearance of the Xbox Kinect on the market -- functioning almost identically to the Wii -- increased the presence of truly active game systems.
Burning Calories
A 2007 study from Liverpool John Moores University in England provides real data to the calorie burning impact of the Wii, reports "The New York Times." The study, which focused on boys and girls between the ages of 13 and 15, determined that children at rest burn an average of 72 calories an hour. Playing an Xbox game increased the number to 107, while playing Wii tennis raised the number to 179 calories an hour. It should be noted that the Xbox game used in this study was a standard version of the system and not the Kinect.
Heart Rate
The benefits of active video gaming extend beyond children. Researchers from the University of West Florida asked a group of seniors in their 60s, 70s and 80s to play Wii bowling as part of a research study. The study, according to "U.S. News" website, resulted in the heart rate of the participants rising by an average of 40 percent. The seniors also reported feeling rejuvenated and more enthusiastic. Perhaps just as importantly, the physical demands of the Wii were within the capabilities of the men and women taking part in the study.
Video Games as Transition
The exercise benefits of using the Wii or any other similar video game system should not be considered an adequate replacement for more traditional workout or sport regimens. "The New York Times" points out, however, that one of the most helpful characteristics of using interactive video games for people who have fallen into a sedentary lifestyle is that they provide a manageable transition toward a more comprehensive exercise program.
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