Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Nintendo’s Interactive Video Games Help You Get Fit

Video games are not just for fun anymore. Nintendo’s popular Wii virtual gaming system is now being used as a tool in rehabilitation and physical therapy. A Step Ahead and Mobility Physical Therapy have initiated a new exercise program for amputees that incorporates the use of the Wii Sport and Wii Fit games. The Nintendo system uses a motion-sensing controller and a motion sensing balance board, allowing patients to play virtual sports and games. Patients have a wireless device that interacts with the animated athlete on a television screen so they are able to play tennis, bowling, baseball, golf and a variety of fitness programs including balance, yoga, aerobic and strengthening exercises.

The games and fitness activities improve range of motion, endurance, balance, strength and coordination. The Wii games and the Wii Fit provide a variety of opportunities to improve weight bearing and increase balance as well as strength by providing visual biofeedback while performing simple and fun exercises and playing sports on the TV screen. Call us to see how we can customize an exercise program with Wii Fit and Wii Sports to help you improve balance strength and fitness.

No comments: