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Nintendo Wii proves that video games can be good for you

Posted: Jan 3rd 2007 12:38PM by Martha Edwards
Filed under: Health in the Media, Healthy Kids, Healthy Products and Reviews

When I was growing up, my brother and I weren't allowed to have a Nintendo. At the time, it seemed like a particularly cruel form of punishment, but in truth, my mom was really just looking out for our health. She wanted to make sure we spent more time being active outside instead of couped up in front of the TV for hours on end, until our eyes were square and our thumbs cramped into little claws. I think she was on to something -- the popularity of video games has been directly linked to the obesity epidemic.

But guess what? A new video gaming system, the Wii, actually has potential health benefits. The system involves a wireless handheld controller that mimics the players actions. The player's movements are then mimicked in the game and, depending on the activity, playing can actually be quite a workout. There are even a large number of Wii-related injuries that involve more than the thumb. Sure, the fresh air is lacking when playing Wii, but if it gives players some sort of full-body activity, that can't be a bad thing, right?

I've yet to try out the Wii and am intrigued. Is it a good workout?

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