iWorkout

Wii Fit is among one of many exercise-themed video games that have students getting up off the couch and breaking a sweat. Photo courtesy of AP Photo/ Casey Rodgers

Gyms and outdoor exercising have always been the norm when it comes to getting in a good workout, but more and more students are switching gears to something more technological to break a sweat.

Video game consoles, such as the Nintendo Wii and Xbox 360, have popularized new ways to work out at home, with the release of several varieties of exercise, dance and total fitness workout games. Breaking the stigma that video games only hinder a person’s willingness to partake in physical activity, these games are not only extremely popular, but they actually work.

“What I like about these exercise video games is that it is there when you want to exercise,” said Business Marketing major Winslow Caliwag. “Instead of having to feel forced to work out because you signed up for this gym membership and you pay monthly, I have my gym here at home. Also I benefit by being in the comfort of my house instead of uncomfortably wondering how ugly I might look when I workout around others in a gym.”

With the popularity of the exercise video games, physical education teachers and parents have began to notice the change in physically activity students are willing to participate in. People who play these games don’t even feel as if they are exercising and concentrate more on the fun of the game than the actual workout. While these workouts are beneficial and fun for students to participate in, like any workout, moderation is important.

“I don't think they should replace sports,” said Bruce Bailey, assistant professor of exercise science at Brigham Young University in a March 2011 Los Angeles Times article. “But it's good if you can use it to replace a sedentary activity, or if they don't have an affinity to be active. You can use it for times when it's not feasible to play outside, but I think there is value in playing outside."

Many college students are fans of exercise video games, as a form of social interaction and maintaining a workout routine without heading to the gym. For the busy student juggling a full course load and a part-time job, these exercise video games are a welcomed addition to their daily schedule.

“Honestly, I don’t workout as often as I like because of my busy schedule but I try to at least an hour twice a week,” said Caliwag. “I do believe that results are realistic and are just the same as if you were to work out at a gym. You are even able to keep track of the amount of calories you lose with the videogame technology. I do get sore and see results.”