Are Wii Fit?

The February 2010 Tufts University Nutrition Letter detailed an interesting study involving the active video games included in the Wii Sports and Wii Fit packages. Essentially, the small study (funded by Nintendo) of twelve adults showed that these specific video games played with the motion-controlled Nintendo Wii could actually count toward the goal of thirty minutes of daily aerobic activity. The research showed that exertion from the majority of the games to be the equivalent to walking on a treadmill at about three miles per hour. Thankfully, the lead researcher Dr. Miyachi, National Institutes of Health and Nutrition in Tokyo, cautioned that these games should only be viewed as one part of an overall activity plan.

There have also been recent news reports of the Wii being used for rehabilitation at some Veterans’ Hospitals. The Wii is being used to supplement the tedious exercise required in traditional rehabilitation. It has also become a popular addition to many assisted living facilities as a way for the senior residents to get much needed exercise in a safe controlled environment.

Considering the many shortcomings of this limited research, I would like to offer a few additional thoughts. My family’s video game wizard, my 12 year old son, has each of these Nintendo Wii games. Admittedly, I held some optimism that he might embrace these action games . . . anything to get him off the comfy couch (After completing his homework, of course)! Initially, he did dive right into the Wii. I smiled proudly. Alas, after about a week and a half . . . the Fit portion of the Wii was ancient history. “Not enough action (i.e. shooting, bombing, etc.) dad.”

I really believe that it takes a commitment from parents to offer, educate, direct, guide and influence our children to be active. Honestly, I work everyday at finding some active time for my children. Of course, I passionately know that this is more than worth the effort. It’s a great lesson at ay age; short term sacrifice is well worth the long term benefits!

So that being said, aren’t we lucky we live in sunny Florida. This is an incredible time of the year for outside activities. Sunshine, moderate temperatures and low humidity make for a recipe of pure enjoyment to exercise. So, if you are a bit short on your cardiovascular exercise efforts, now is the time to step up your activity. Remember, the gold standard is to exercise aerobically on most days each week, ideally 5-6.

The recently completed 2010 Publix Supermarkets Gasparilla Distance Classic Weekend was amazing! There were a record setting number of runners and walkers participating in the 5k, 15k, half marathon and marathon (26.2 miles) distances. Congratulations to all of you who set goals, worked with commitment and effort, and achieved your objectives! Enjoy the spring. Have a healthy day.