Wednesday, October 10, 2007

Even My Grandmother can beat you on the Wii, Seriously

A couple months ago my grandmother could not turn on a computer. Times are changing for the gaming industry and everyone is in its path. You must be asking why is he writing about gaming systems on a fitness blog, well settle down I will tell you.

Fitness comes in many shapes and sizes, there is no right answer. With a strong push from Nintendo with their Wii-Fit and the adaptation to the elderly it appears to be a formidable choice. Earlier in the year Nintendo released games using their unique wand and motion sensitive controllers to increase hand eye coordination, heart rate and physical activity. There is no questions sometime outside is beneficial but for some it may be a great alternative to getting larger on the couch. For years Dance Dance Revolution has been the staple of this progression. The game allows users to dance their way to a high score and for anyone who has ever played it works up quite a sweat. Certified Personal Trainer of the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) have agreed the Wii can be a great tool for keeping in shape.

The question is why not, we simulate running on a treadmill or steps on a stair master. Is taking tennis lessons on your entertainment system or increasing your metabolism and increase your intent to do physical activity just that far fetched. I mean after all my grandmother can pretty much destroy me in the Wii tennis game and I must say it has improved her driving, as long as shes the passenger.

The next stage of Wii-Fit will include yoga and pilates. Brilliant strategy, great marketing, and I beginning to believe it will make a difference in the largest nation, physically. Long story short get out and enjoy the sunshine before your virtual world becomes a nicer place.

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