Wii fit 'not as effective as outdoor activities and exercise'
17/12/2009 Those looking to shift their Christmas weight could get better results from traditional outdoor activities rather than a Wii fit, according to researchers from the University of Minnesota.
Scott Owens, an associate professor of health and exercise science at the university, monitored eight families in the US with a Wii fit over a period of six months to determine whether the game had an impact on their health.
The study found that "modest amounts of daily Wii fit use may have provided insufficient stimulus for fitness changes".
Professor Owens also noted that the game failed to produce "significant changes in daily physical activity, muscular fitness, flexibility, balance or body composition", which can all be improved through regular use of more traditional forms of exercise equipment.
One positive result from the study was that using the controller can increase the heart rate.
Experts estimate that using a trampoline for just ten minutes each day provides the same benefits as half an hour spent running. Trampolines are proven to provide a good cardio vascular work out, improve muscle strength and balance, and stimulate the body's lymphatic system.
Scott Owens, an associate professor of health and exercise science at the university, monitored eight families in the US with a Wii fit over a period of six months to determine whether the game had an impact on their health.
The study found that "modest amounts of daily Wii fit use may have provided insufficient stimulus for fitness changes".
Professor Owens also noted that the game failed to produce "significant changes in daily physical activity, muscular fitness, flexibility, balance or body composition", which can all be improved through regular use of more traditional forms of exercise equipment.
One positive result from the study was that using the controller can increase the heart rate.
Experts estimate that using a trampoline for just ten minutes each day provides the same benefits as half an hour spent running. Trampolines are proven to provide a good cardio vascular work out, improve muscle strength and balance, and stimulate the body's lymphatic system.
