An emerging trend in physical fitness has been inspired by the invasion of a relatively new technology to the market referred to as Active Gaming or Exergaming. Exergaming is defined as technology-driven physical activities, such as video game play, that requires participants to be physically active or exercise in order to play the game. These game based physical activities go beyond simple hand finger movements as the primary interface and require the user to apply full body motion to participate in virtual sports, in group fitness exercise or other interactive physical activities. Multiple types of game controllers ranging from censored pads (Dance Dance Revolution, Lightspace, Makoto, etc.) to motion sensor video cameras (Sony Eye Toy and Microsoft Kinect being the most popular) require the user to move and interact with the game versus traditional sedentary types of gaming behaviors.

The reason behind the growing popularity of Exergaming can be attributed to 1) the decrease in physical activity levels, 2) the increase in obesity rates, and 3) the influx of technology that saturates our society and the way we live. Well over 50 hours a week is spent in front of some type of screen (Video games, cell phones, computers, television, etc.) with ‘gaming’ being one of the most popular forms of screen entertainment. Playing video games on a television, computer, cell phone, and/ or tablet (e.g. iPad) has been considered an addiction. This behavior is not going away and only continues to grow in popularity with the onset of cooler graphics and the constant invasion of new games including mobile and tablet applications (Apps). The concept behind Exergaming is to leverage the passion for gaming and turn what was once considered a sedentary behavior into one that is more active and healthy. Requiring participants to get up and move while still allowing them to play and enjoy the experience has become an incentive to increasing physical activity levels in all populations.

Research continues to emerge that supports Exergaming as a healthy and beneficial form of physical activity. Studies have shown that various types of Exergames can produce moderate to vigorous physical activity results as well as positive physiological results. As with any exercise, depending on how the individual participates will dictate the type of results from the activity. Additional benefits that participating in Exergaming can provide are as follows:

• Fun – Over eighty-four percent of adolescents stated that having fun was the single most important element in life. In addition, one of the main reasons adults decide to leave a workout routine is due to boredom. Exergaming provides participants with a desirable experience with the use of technology where some have stated they do not even realize they are exercising.
• Social Interaction – Many Exergames allow multiple players to participate at one time. Peers are able to play alongside of one another and communicate about the activity. Participants are able to talk about game play and even assist one another in improving.
• Choice – Exergames allow participants to make individual choices when playing because the games are self paced. Users are able to choose their mode of play, difficulty level, with whom they would like to compete against (themselves, a friend or peer, the computer, or online competitors), and in most cases an avatar in which to identify. This prevents participants from becoming discouraged and motivates them to become and remain active.
• Video game motivation – The video game industry is worth over $10.5 billion in revenue. Playing video games is one of the most desirable hobbies in society today. Exergaming allows participants to play their favorite games while being active and healthier.

The youth is certainly the most common population of Exergame users today. Although there has been a growing interest through the great success of implementing Exergaming with the adult and older adult population, it is the younger generation that has become more inactive, born into technology, obsessed with gaming, and consequently more obese. Exergaming reaches children and adolescents where they are today in the 21st century. However, keep in mind, this generation eventually grows into a young adult and adult population. After participating in Exergaming and enjoying moving, it is hard to imagine they will decide to turn to treadmills, ellipticals, and other stationary, traditional exercises to voluntarily be active.

Initially, Exergaming was more common in arcades and in health facilities such as YMCA’s, JCC’s, recreation departments, and fitness gyms. The idea was to target the teen and tween age population, as there was a place in facilities for younger children and adults but not the middle aged adolescents. Today, Exergaming can be found almost anywhere globally including doctors’ offices, hospitals, schools, cooperate wellness offices, and now in our homes. Exergaming has found its way into all aspects of society. The release of Nintendo Wii and Microsoft Kinect was the major promoter for the inclusion of Exergaming in the residential market. Many Exergames were too large and expensive to put into a living room or bedroom. These video game consoles were financially reasonable as well as sustainable allowing participants to use the same console with a variety of games. Additionally, with the explosion of applications (Apps) for mobile devices and tablets, Exergames can now even travel with you. Exergames on a mobile device may require you to move and track your steps or use upper body movements to play the games.

Technology is not going away. It is only going to become more desirable as advancements are made. Exergaming is a healthy, appealing option to increase physical activity levels in all populations. New Exergames are being developed monthly in the pursuit to encourage users to voluntarily choose to be active doing something engaging and fun. What was once a buzz word that few understood, Exergaming can now be found anywhere you go on hand held devices, in health facilities, schools, and corporate wellness facilities.

As research continues to support Exergames, this innovative concept to exercise is only going to grow in popularity. And, as the younger generations become adults, exergaming is going to slowly but surely modernize how we choose to exercise!