“Exertainment and home video consoles are the wave of the future,” commented Dr. Josh Trout, Professor of Kinesiology at California State University Chico, who specializes in video game technology and exercise movement. “Exergaming” can provide excellent health benefits
Following an investigation into the health effects of playing video games, the report noted that while games have historically been blamed for the nation’s obesity epidemic, new gaming technologies “may prove to be just what fitness experts are looking for to help their clients get more active, increase their heart rate and spend less time sitting on the couch.”
While the ISSA trainers polled acknowledged that DDR (Dance Dance Revolution) provides a greater workout and therefore is more likely to help improve one’s fitness level, the Wii shouldn’t be discounted. “The Nintendo Wii will show benefits for everyone,” said ISSA certified trainer Nichole Snow. “Whether you can sit down for the game or you have to be standing, it involves movement. The best part is its just fun - for everyone. Deconditioned and obese individuals will find it fun to play and gain aerobic movement out of the games. Seniors can enjoy gentle movements of bowling and golfing. Youth become a part of the game and don’t just turn into vegetables in front of the TV. Everyone can burn some calories and learn some good health habits from Nintendo Wii’s fitness, and the system is just too hard to pass up when watching anyone play.”