Your Therapy Source recently posted a blog about the benefits of active video games for children. Since we have been using the WiiFit for more purposes we thought it was interesting to check out and share with you.
There was a recent study published in the Journal of Pediatrics titled "The Effect of Exergaming on Vascular Function in Children." The researchers studied 15 children, ages 9-11 years old, participating in high intensity exergaming, low intensity exergaming and a graded exercise test on a treadmill. The X-box Kinect Sports was the gaming choice for this study. They measured energy expenditure and the vascular response to each activity using flow-mediated dilation (FMD), which is a validated measure of vascular function and health in children.
They found that high intensity exergaming elicited an energy expenditure equivalent to moderate intensity exercise; low intensity exergaming resulted in an energy expenditure equivalent to low intensity exercise. Additionally, high intensity exergaming decreased FMD, suggesting that it may improve vascular health in children. High intensity exergaming also increased heart rate and the amount of energy burned. Participants reported similar enjoyment levels with both intensities of exergaming, which indicates that children may be equally likely to continue playing the high intensity games.
During a time where obesity is on the rise and fewer children are receiving the recommended daily amount of physical activity, exergaming could be a fun and motivating option. It can involve friends or make it a family event. It is also easy to access in your house and therefore, can be done daily maybe during homework breaks or after school.
Reference:
1. Andrew Mills, BSc, Michael Rosenberg, PhD, Gareth Stratton, PhD, Howard H. Carter, BSc, Angela L. Spence, BSc, Christopher JA Pugh, PhD, Daniel J. Green, PhD, and Louise H. Naylor, PhD. "The Effect of Exergaming on Vascular Function in Children," The Journal of Pediatrics, DOI 10.1016/j.jpeds.2013.03.076
