Games Used to Make You Buff

Teens and children attending schools in Ballston Spa, NY are certainly in for a unique physical education experience, all thanks to faculty open to the implementation of video games.

The Post Star reports that by using a combination of exercise friendly Wii titles, students are being put to the test through everything from Wii Sports to Dance, Dance, Revolution, all on the Nintendo Wii platform. 

School instructor Kevin Dayton commented "They didn't teach us this in college -- video 101, there is a need to get kids away from video games, but -- everything in moderation. You wouldn't want them doing this 14 hours a day."  His school initially offered access to the video game based fitness programs to special needs students, however the program was then extended to all students as a reward for good behavior, and for excellence in classroom assignments.  

Considering the level of penetration of video game systems in homes these days, Kevin is ultimately looking to bridge the gap between school based physical activities, and those at home.  With easy access to games such as those used at school, students could easily enjoy the same level of phyical activity at their home. 

Other schools in the area have also initiated programs as well, including up to the High School level.  Saratoga Springs High School students were recently offered a "Dance, Dance, Revolution" program for the first time.  When interviewed by the Post Star, David Ashdown, an official with the regional BOCES representing 31 school districts in the area stated "What you're getting is student engagement and trying to harness what we call the 'wow factor.' You're trying to reach every student and creating opportunities to make students successful."

Video game based exercise programs are certainly an interesting concept, and we eagerly await to hear more about the results of such programs in the future.