Research: exergames break link between video games and childhood obesity

One of the evils that's linked obesity in children - video games - is now being used to promote physical activity by using physically active exergames, research shows.

"When we talk about obesity, we often talk about the fast-food industry," said Laurette Dube, organizer of the 2008 McGill Health Challenge Think Tank. "But that's only one side of the equation - the energy-in side. We also have to look at the energy-out side, and that's why it's very important to look at ways in which we can reduce kids' inactive time and increase their share of time that gets them moving."

Exergames keep kids moving and balance the energy equation, which has shown in new study. The study shows that obese and overweight children who play exergames don't gain weight but in fact improve their physiological function.

Linda Carson, a professor of physical education West Virginia University created two groups of overweight children. The first group spent 12 weeks with a variety of exergames. The second group continued with their regular routine.

After the 12 weeks were up, the researchers discovered that the children in the second group gained weight. But the children in the exergaming group maintained their weight, while improving their aerobic ability and endothelial capacity.

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