Video Game Workouts

Exergaming: The Revolution of Video Game Workouts

by Scott Keppel

From its roots in the 1980s to recent innovations such as the Wii Fit, a type of exercise called exergaming is becoming an increasingly popular alternative to traditional fitness routines. With a majority of the U.S. population owning at least one video gaming system, it's really no surprise. Not all exergaming routines are created equal, however, and that's where it helps to have the advice of a certified trainer.

While it may seem like just another fad, in fact, exergaming is no joke. It is a legitimate option for those looking to get healthy-even traditional gyms are incorporating it-and several studies have been done to prove its effectiveness. A study conducted by theMayo Clinic in 2007 found that obese kids burned six times as many calories playing "Dance Dance Revolution" than they did when playing traditional video games.

Another 2007 study showed that college students burned twice as many calories playing video games as they did walking on a treadmill. Senior care centers around the country have now incorporated exergaming to help senior citizens to not only be more active, but also improve their balance and core strength. These studies are significant in that they show us that no matter one's age, exergaming can be a great tool in helping to achieve optimal fitness.

DANCE DANCE REVOLUTION

"Dance Dance Revolution," which has stayed in the public's eye since hitting the market in 1998, is the most popular exergame the general population uses. It offers a number of different dance styles and levels using an easy-to-set-up mat and can be hooked up to any television. This system will get individuals moving and burning calories while listening to fun music and trying out some of the latest dance moves.

A drawback to "Dance Dance Revolution" is that very little upper body movement is required of the user. There is also no strength component and very little flexibility training. Hence, "Dance Dance Revolution" can be a great addition to an exercise program but should not be used exclusively.

The reigning champion of exergaming is the Nintendo Wii. Since the release of the Wii console in 2006, it has become by far the most popular exergaming solution. Bowling, baseball, driving a car and sword fighting are just a few examples of the wide variety of games Wii system offers to help retain a user's interest.

The Wii not only offers a variety of games but also different levels of difficulty in each, so everyone can participate. However, exercisers can run into trouble if they continually use their dominant arms. To avoid having the right arm of a body builder and the left arm of a runway model, a player needs to switch hands during the game and use each one equally.

Wii FIT

The "Wii Fit" is an impressive entry into the fitness arena, allowing an individual to enter his or her own personal information, from height and weight to age and fitness goals. In terms of tracking progress, the Wii Fit is miles ahead of the curve. It offers games that challenge not only the user's cardiovascular fitness but their flexibility, balance and strength as well. Quite possibly the most advanced system available to the general public, it targets all the areas important in developing a well-rounded physique.

The Wii Fit is certainly deserving of all the praise it has received, though it is not perfect. The game does not explain things like proper repetition range, nor does it allow advanced users to really push themselves with more challenging cardiovascular workouts.

For advanced users, there are better options out there. But for beginners, the Wii Fit can be a great tool. The balance and Yoga applications are great for individuals who need to focus on these areas and do not want to take a class at a gym or pay for lessons. Virtual trainers are there to offer assistance, and the Wii Fit balance board measures weight distribution to make sure the user is keeping the proper form.

Unfortunately, there is no virtual trainer for the strength program, and it could benefit from one. Several of the moves the program asks the exerciser to do-such as lunges and push-ups into rotation-are fairly advanced. Beginners could injure themselves without proper instructions.

Exergaming, like any other exercise tool, can be beneficial when applied properly and used in conjunction with other programs. Health concerns and limitations are different for everyone, however, so a doctor should always be consulted before beginning any new routine to help develop realistic fitness goals and also lend a hand with proper eating habits. No matter the routine, the important thing to remember is to get up and do it. Be active, eat clean and live healthy.

Scott Keppel is a certified fitness instructor with over 14 years of experience and is the official trainer for the Miss Arizona USA and Miss Teen Arizona USA pageants and the official trainer for the Weight Loss Institute of Arizona. Specializing in training individuals for weight loss, pre- and post-natal, bodybuilding, figure, fitness preparation and general fitness, he has been featured in both national and local media.