Interactive Video Games Can Improve Fitness Levels of Inactive Adults

Do you have a Nintendo Wii in your Hollywood, Florida home? A new study announces that one of the Wii’s more popular games, the Wii Fit, comes with many fitness benefits, which is great news if you are considering bariatric surgery or have had weight loss surgery. This new study suggests that the Wii Fit may help people who are overweight or inactive get back into their fitness routines.

The independent study from Queensland University of Technology (QUT) indicated significant body mass and abdominal fat deposit reductions among its participants after playing Wii fitness games, which included yoga, balance, aerobics and strength exercise games. Study participants showed improved balance, strength, and walking fitness after using the Wii Fit. When measurements were taken, participants measured losing two to three centimeters from their abdominal and waist circumferences.

One study research associate noted that participants felt more motivated to engage in exercise following the two-week Wii fitness regime. They also described feeling more favorable about their body image.

Researchers did point out the Wii Fit is not necessarily better than any other type of exercise, but it could be used in conjunction with a weight loss program. Those who have had Hollywood weight loss surgery, such as bariatric surgery, are encouraged to speak with their weight loss surgeon to discuss the benefits of the Wii Fit Nintendo game. Study researchers also point out that the Wii Fit is a particularly effective tool for sedentary people who would be more inclined to begin an exercise program within the comforts of their own home.

While there have been clear results shown from the use of the Wii Fit game, researchers point out that it’s not the only way to get healthy.