Wii Fit Exercise Research Articles

Effects of nonimmersive virtual reality using Wii-Fit exercises on balance and cognition in Parkinson disease: A meta-analysis.

Patients' compliance and receptivity to nonimmersive virtual reality (NIVR) can enhance their long-term exercise therapy compliance for neurological illnesses. Patients with Parkinson disease (PD) have age-standardized rates of disability, death, and prevalence that are rising the fastest; several researches have revealed that there is no known cure for PD at this time. Thus, the current study investigates how NIVR affects patients with PD using Wii-Fit exercises. Therefore, the present study investigates the effects of NIVR using Wii-Fit exercises among patients with PD. The population, intervention, comparison, outcome approach was used to select the research studies. Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online, PubMed, Physiotherapy Evidence Database, and ProQuest were checked for citations from 2012 to 2022. RevMan was used to analyze data. A fixed and random effects model was used to analyze the pooled effect size in terms of mean and standard deviation. The heterogeneity was calculated using the I2 statistic. Cochrane examined for bias in randomized controlled trials. This review comprised 12 trials in total. Using the Berg Balance Scale, the pooled analysis showed statistically significant effects on the NIVR group (pooled standardized mean difference = 0.61 [95% confidence interval, 0.28-0.95]; I2 = 53%; P = .0003). The pooled effects of cognition showed nonsignificant effects of NIVR (pooled standardized mean difference = 0.15 [95% confidence interval, -0.21 to 0.51]; I2 = 0%; P = .41). The review suggests that NIVR is effective for balance rehabilitation but ineffective for cognitive improvement in patients with PD aged >18 to 85 years.

Effectiveness of Wii-Fit Combined with Conventional Exercises on the Functional Mobility and Balance of Children with Cerebral Palsy and Their Typically Growing Peers.

Nintendo Wii Fit is an accessible, affordable, and productive inclusion into rehabilitation programs for children with cerebral palsy (CP) as a physical activity intervention; however, to our knowledge, there are no comparative studies 8 investigating the effects on the functional mobility and balance of children with CP compared to typically growing (TG) children. We evaluated the effects of Nintendo Wii Fit video exercises on static and dynamic balance, functional capacity, and walking endurance in children with CP compared to their TG peers. Children with CP and their TG peers were trained with Nintendo Wii Fit Balance Board games and conventional exercises (40 minutes each) for 16 weeks, twice a week. Their static and dynamic balance, functional capacity, and walking endurance were evaluated at the beginning and end of the study. The improvement achieved within the groups in all parameters, as well as between the groups, was significant, except for the dynamic balance and walking endurance. Standing Nintendo Wii Fit exercises combined with conventional exercises can be included as axial exercises in the physiotherapy program for children with CP as an enjoyable physical activity. TG children may also benefit, increasing their functional mobility and walking endurance in a fun way.

Wii Fit Exercise's Effects on Muscle Strength and Fear of Falling in Older Adults With Alzheimer Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

This study aimed to investigate how Wii Fit exercises affect muscle strength and fear of falling in older adults with Alzheimer's disease. The study included a total of 32 volunteers with Alzheimer's disease, aged 65-80years. These participants were divided into two groups: the exercise group and the control group. The exercise group received a 30-min (one session) twice-weekly exercise program for 6 weeks with games selected from different categories, such as balance and aerobic exercises, with the Nintendo Wii virtual reality device. During this period, the control group did not receive any treatment, and routine medical treatments continued. At baseline and 6 weeks later, Mini-Mental State Examination, knee extension muscle strength, Timed Up and Go Test, and Tinetti Fall Efficacy Scale results were recorded in the exercise and control groups. In intragroup comparison, a statistically significant difference was found in all tests (muscle strength, Timed Up and Go Test, and Tinetti Fall Efficacy Scale) in the exercise group after the exercise program (p < .05), while no significant difference was found in the control group (p > .05). According to the interaction of group and time in the intergroup comparison, there was no difference between the groups (exercise and control group) in muscle strength and Timed Up and Go Test (p > .05), but there was a difference in Tinetti Fall Efficacy Scale (p < .05). This randomized controlled trial supports the claim that Wii Fit exercises can reduce the fear of falling in older adults with Alzheimer's disease.

Effectiveness of Nintendo Wii on Balance in People with Parkinson's Disease: A Systematic Review.

The use of exergaming exercises is increasingly becoming accepted as an alternative to surgical and medical therapies for Parkinson's disease (PD). Although the area has attracted some results, there is still no conclusive evidence on the benefit of exergaming exercises in improving PD patients' body balance. The current study is a systematic review aiming at examining the effectiveness of the Nintendo Wii Fit ("Wii Fit") game on improving the balance in people with Parkinson's disease. A total of 200 articles were selected online after conducting an extensive search on PubMed, Cochrane, PEDro, CAPES Periodic, ResearchGate, Web of Science, and ProQuest. Upon reviewing the identified sources, ten articles were included, of which four were randomized control trials. The results show that at least five weeks of Wii Fit exercises effectively enhance PD patients' body balance and life outcomes. However, better results occur when patients combine Wii Fit with other conventional exercises.

Effect of Wii Fit Exercise With Balance and Lower Limb Muscle Strength in Older Adults: A Meta-Analysis

BackgroundFalls and fall-related injuries are not uncommon among older adults and may lead to serious health deterioration and decreased quality of life. Numerous types of physical activity have been proposed to improve balance and strength in older adults with varying degrees of success. Nintendo's Wii Fit video exergame uses body movement as a game controller and provides real-time feedback for games designed to enhance balance and muscle strength. However, whether Wii Fit exercise improves the balance and lower limb muscle strength of older adults remains uncertain.ObjectiveTo evaluate the current literature by using meta-analyses to assess whether Wii Fit exercise is associated with improved balance and lower limb muscle strength in older adults.MethodsWe searched PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Wanfang Data from inception to February 16, 2022, for relevant studies and conducted a manual search of the literature. Data extraction of the included studies were independently performed by two authors. The methodologic quality of each included study was assessed using the Physical Therapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale. Meta-analyses were conducted using Review Manager 5.3.ResultsOf 991 articles initially identified, 10 articles (379 participants; aged ≥65 years, range 65–92 years; 188 participants in Wii Fit exercise groups, and 191 participants in control groups), including 8 randomized controlled trials, were assessed in this meta-analysis. The methodologic quality of the included studies evaluated with the PEDro average score was 6.4 and ranged from 5 to 8 points, indicating moderate quality. Compared with no exercise, Wii Fit exercise was associated with significant improved scores on the Berg Balance Scale, which evaluates functional balance (mean difference, 1.38; 95% CI, 0.61–2.16; I2 = 31%; P = 0.0005) and on the Timed Up and Go test, which evaluates static and dynamic balance (standardized mean difference, −0.51; 95% CI,−0.88 to −0.14; I2 = 52%; P = 0.007). However, for the three studies assessed, Wii Fit exercise did not significantly improve scores on the 30-s chair stand test, which evaluates the functional strength and endurance of the lower limb muscles (mean difference, 0.82; 95% CI, −0.14 to 1.77; z = 1.68; P = 0.09).ConclusionsOur findings indicated that Wii Fit exercise is an effective approach to improve functional, static, and dynamic balance among older adults. Additional meta-analyzes with higher numbers of randomized controlled trials are suggested to confirm the benefits of Wii Fit exercise on balance in older adults, to establish whether functional strength and endurance of lower limb muscles are improved, and to explore the relationship between improved balance and fall prevention in this population.

Home-Based Exercise Program Improves Balance and Fear of Falling in Community-Dwelling Older Adults with Mild Alzheimer's Disease: A Pilot Study.

Balance problems are common in older adults with Alzheimer's disease (AD). The objective was to study the effects of a Wii-Fit interactive video-game-led physical exercise program to a walking program on measures of balance in older adults with mild AD. A prospective randomized controlled parallel-group trial (Wii-Fit versus walking) was conducted in thirty community-dwelling older adults (73±6.2 years) with mild AD. Home-based exercises were performed under caregiver supervision for 8 weeks. Primary (Berg Balance Scale, BBS) and secondary outcomes (fear of falls and quality of life) were measured at baseline, 8 weeks (end of intervention), and 16 weeks (8-weeks post-intervention). At 8 weeks, there was a significantly greater improvement (average inter-group difference [95% CI]) in the Wii-Fit group compared to the walking group in BBS (4.8 [3.3-6.2], p < 0.001), after adjusting for baseline. This improvement was sustained at 16 weeks (3.5 [2.0-5.0], p < 0.001). Analyses of the secondary outcome measures indicated that there was a significantly greater improvement in the Wii-Fit group compared to walking group in Activity-specific Balance Confidence scale (6.5 [3.6-9.4], p < 0.001) and Falls Efficacy Scale (-4.8 [-7.6 to -2.0], p = 0.002) at 8 weeks. However, this effect was not sustained at 16 weeks. Quality of life improved in both groups at 8 weeks; however, there were no inter-group differences (p = 0.445). Home-based, caregiver-supervised Wii-Fit exercises improve balance and may reduce fear of falling in community-dwelling older adults with mild AD.

Efficacy of Wii-Fit on Static and Dynamic Balance in Community Dwelling Older Veterans: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial.

Background/Objectives. Balance problems are well-established modifiable risk factors for falls, which are common in older adults. The objective of this study was to establish the efficacy of a Wii-Fit interactive video-game-led physical exercise program to improve balance in older Veterans. Methods. A prospective randomized controlled parallel-group trial was conducted at Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Thirty community dwelling Veterans aged 68 (±6.7) years were randomized to either the exercise or control groups. The exercise group performed Wii-Fit program while the control group performed a computer-based cognitive program for 45 minutes, three days per week for 8-weeks. The primary (Berg Balance Scale (BBS)) and secondary outcomes (fear of falling, physical activity enjoyment, and quality of life) were measured at baseline, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks. Results. Of 30 randomized subjects, 27 completed all aspects of the study protocol. There were no study-related adverse events. Intent-to-treat analysis showed a significantly greater improvement in BBS in the exercise group (6.0; 95% CI, 5.1–6.9) compared to the control group (0.5; 95% CI, −0.3–1.3) at 8 weeks (average intergroup difference (95% CI), 5.5 (4.3–6.7), p < 0.001) after adjusting for baseline. Conclusion. This study establishes that the Wii-Fit exercise program is efficacious in improving balance in community dwelling older Veterans. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT02190045.

Virtual Reality-Based Wii Fit Training in Improving Muscle Strength, Sensory Integration Ability, and Walking Abilities in Patients with Parkinson's Disease: A Randomized Control Trial

Virtual reality (VR) systems have been proven to increase motor performance in stroke and elderly patients. However, the effects have not been established in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). The aim of this study was to examine the effects of VR-based training in improving muscle strength, sensory integration ability, and walking abilities in patients with PD through a randomized controlled trial. Thirty-six individuals who have been diagnosed with PD were randomly assigned to one of three groups (n = 12 for each group). Participants performed VR-based Wii Fit exercise (VRWii group) or traditional exercise (TE group) for 45 minutes, followed by treadmill training for another 15 minutes for 12 sessions in 6 weeks. Participants in the control group did not undergo the structured exercise program, but received fall-prevention education instead. The study outcomes included lower extremity muscle strength, sensory integration ability, walking velocity, stride length, and functional gait assessment. All outcomes were assessed at baseline, after training, and at 1 month follow-up. Both the VRWii and TE groups showed more improvement in level walking velocity, stride length, functional gait assessment, muscle strength, and vestibular system integration compared with the control group after training and at 1 month follow-up. The VRWii training, but not the TE training, resulted in greater improvement in visual system integration than the control. VRWii training is as beneficial as TE in improving walking abilities, sensory integration ability, and muscle strength in patients with PD, and such improvements persisted for at least for 1 month. VRWii training is thus suggested to be implemented in patients with PD.

The Effect of a 12 Week Wii Fit Exercise Intervention on Multiple Bone Health Outcomes

Interventions to maximize bone health and minimize osteoporotic fracture risk in women have had limited success. This is primarily from low compliance stemming in part from a lack of appeal for the exercise. “Exergaming,” or exercise video gaming, offers a form of weight-bearing exercise that may be more attractive. To date, no studies have researched the effects of exergaming on bone health parameters. PURPOSE: To investigate the effects of a 12-week Wii Fit Plus® (WF+) exercise intervention on serum osteocalcin, site specific bone mineral density (BMD) with dual energy xray absorptiometry (DXA), and qualitative ultrasound (QUS) of the Os Calcis in peri-menopausal women. METHODS: 24 previously inactive women (53 + 2y) with DXA BMD T-scores <0 at the hip and/or lumbar spine, were randomized into control (CON) or intervention (INT) groups. INT was provided a WF+ system and performed a pre-programmed routine 3 times a week for a total of 90 minutes/week. Osteocalcin and QUS measures were taken at baseline, 6, and 12 weeks. DXAs of hip/femoral neck/lumbar spine were taken at baseline and 12 weeks. Data were analyzed using RM-ANOVA. RESULTS: 22 women completed the study with 92% compliance. Qualitative data indicated that the exercise was engaging and fun. Groups were not statistically different for any QUS outcomes (stiffness index/t-score/z-score) at any time point (p>0.05). DXA measures of the lumbar spine or hip were not statistically different between groups (P > 0.05), but there was an indication of clinical importance between groups for left femoral neck BMD (INT: +1.15 g/cm2; CON: -1.13 g/cm2). Osteocalcin was not significantly different between groups, but for 7 of 11 INT women, serum osteocalcin levels were higher post intervention, whereas values remained static or decreased in CON. CONCLUSIONS: WF+ system was enjoyed and it has potential to keep interest. Although the DXA measures suggest clinical improvement, recent recommendations indicate that a minimum of 6 months are needed between measures to determine true clinical significance. Thus, the WiiFit Plus® system shows promise as an exercise intervention that could positively influence bone health but more work is needed to determine its long-term efficacy. Supported by an ACSM Foundation Research Grant from the American College of Sports Medicine Foundation.

Effect of Nintendo Wii Fit Exercise Program to Health-Related Physical Fitness and Quality of Life among University Students

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of Nintendo Wii Fit exercise program to health-related physical fitness and quality of life among university students. Written, informed consent was obtained prior to the participation of the subjects. They participated in the exercise group (n = 25) and control group (n = 25) by themselves. Height, weight, body composition, BMI and WHR, blood pressure, HR and physical fitness (VO2max, muscular strength, muscular endurance, flexibility, etc.), and health-related quality of life (SF-36 questionnaire is used) were measured in the pre- and post-exercise program. In this result, we found interaction effects between the exercise group and control group in muscle mass. Further, the percentage of body fat, WHR, HR, maximum oxygen uptake (VO2 max), muscular strength, muscular endurance, and flexibility showed a significant difference in time between the two groups. Lastly, the physical functioning, body pain, and general health of SF-36 showed also statistical difference in duration between the two groups. The results in this paper suggested that the Nintendo Wii Fit exercise program during 12 weeks may influence the body composition, health-related physical fitness, and QOL of university students.

Virtual Reality–Based Training to Improve Obstacle-Crossing Performance and Dynamic Balance in Patients With Parkinson’s Disease

Background. Obstacle crossing is a balance-challenging task and can cause falls in people with Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, programs for people with PD that effectively target obstacle crossing and dynamic balance have not been established. Objective. To examine the effects of virtual reality–based exercise on obstacle crossing performance and dynamic balance in participants with PD. Methods. Thirty-six participants with a diagnosis of PD (Hoehn and Yahr score ranging 1 to 3) were randomly assigned to one of three groups. In the exercise groups, participants received virtual reality–based Wii Fit exercise (VRWii group) or traditional exercise (TE group) for 45 minutes, followed by 15 minutes of treadmill training in each session for a total of 12 sessions over 6 weeks. Participants in the control group received no structured exercise program. Primary outcomes included obstacle crossing performance (crossing velocity, stride length, and vertical toe obstacle clearance) and dynamic balance (maximal excursion, movement velocity, and directional control measured by the limits-of-stability test). Secondary outcomes included sensory organization test (SOT), Parkinson’s Disease Questionnaire (PDQ39), fall efficacy scale (FES-I), and timed up and go test (TUG). All outcomes were assessed at baseline, after training, and at 1-month follow-up. Results. The VRWii group showed greater improvement in obstacle crossing velocity, crossing stride length, dynamic balance, SOT, TUG, FES-I, and PDQ39 than the control group. VRWii training also resulted in greater improvement in movement velocity of limits-of-stability test than TE training. Conclusions. VRWii training significantly improved obstacle crossing performance and dynamic balance, supporting implementation of VRWii training in participants with PD.

The effect of the Nintendo Wii Fit on exercise capacity and gait in an elderly woman with CREST syndrome

Background/Purpose: Physical deconditioning and impaired balance and gait are common barriers to exercise in frail older adults. This case report describes the efficacy of Nintendo Wii Fit exercises in improving functional capacity, exercise tolerance, strength and balance in an elderly woman with CREST syndrome and multiple chronic conditions. Case description: A sedentary 77-year-old woman with: scleroderma (CREST syndrome) and secondary Sjögren's syndrome; pulmonary hypertension; coronary artery disease; interstitial lung disease; and tremor. The patient could ambulate with a cane and had a high risk of falling. Methods: The participant completed three 30-minute sessions of Wii Fit exercises per week for 12 weeks. The exercises included step aerobics, marching and interactive games to develop balance, weight transfer and upper and lower body strength. Results: Substantial improvements were seen in the following: 6-minute walk test (6MWT) (100%); Timed Up and Go (TUG) (5.3%); 30-second sit to stand (25%); hand grip strength (right 21%; left 8.6%); ankle plantarflexion (right 16.7%; left 33.3%) and dorsiflexion (right 125%; left 88.9%), Tinetti Balance and Gait Assessment (balance score 35.5%; falls efficacy scale score 21.4%); resting systolic blood pressure (5.1%); and oxygen saturation (3.3%). The average movement of centre of pressure decreased post-intervention, but average velocity increased. Conclusions: Specific Wii Fit games may improve health, exercise capacity, mobility, balance and fall risk in older adults affected with CREST and associated severe cardiopulmonary symptoms.

Perceptions of using videogames in rehabilitation: a dual perspective of people with multiple sclerosis and physiotherapists

Purpose: Our aim was to describe experiences of using Nintendo Wii Fit™ for balance exercise, from the perspectives of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and their physiotherapists (PT). Methods: Individual interviews with 15 patients with MS were conducted, recruited from a multi-centre study investigating the effects of balance exercising using Wii Fit. We also conducted a single focus group interview with nine PT involved in the study. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analysed using content analysis. Results: Both patients and PT said that exercising with Wii Fit games was fun, and that it challenged the patients’ physical and cognitive capacities. The competitive content in the games provided motivation to continue playing. Patients and PT reported improved body control and, more importantly, positive effects on balance and walking in daily life. The PT regarded Wii training as an effective alternative to other balance training, but some felt unsure in how to manage the video game. The patients regarded Wii training as a possible home training solution. Conclusions: Patients with MS and their PT considered Wii Fit exercises to be fun, challenging, and self-motivating. Exercising with Wii games can address balance impairments in MS, and can be performed at home as well as in rehabilitation settings.Implications for RehabilitationNintendo Wii Fit™ can be used as a fun and challenging way to perform balance exercises.The competitive content embedded in the games triggers continued playing and exercising.The positive effect on balance control can improve standing and walking in everyday activities.

Exergaming and Static Postural Control in Individuals With a History of Lower Limb Injury

Therapeutic exercise programs that incorporate real-time feedback have been reported to enhance outcomes in patients with lower extremity joint injuries. The Wii Fit has been purported to improve balance, strength, flexibility, and fitness. To determine the effects of Wii Fit rehabilitation on postural control and self-reported function in patients with a history of lower limb injury. Single-blinded, randomized controlled trial. Laboratory. Twenty-eight physically active participants with a history of lower limb injuries were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 groups (9 Wii Fit, 10 traditional, 9 control). Intervention groups performed supervised rehabilitation 3 d/wk for a total of 12 sessions. Time to boundary (TTB) and the Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) were conducted at baseline, 2 weeks, and 4 weeks. Self-reported function was measured at baseline and 4-week follow-up. Between-groups differences were compared using repeated-measures multivariate analysis of variance. With the eyes open, both intervention groups improved (P < .05) in the mean and the SD of the TTB anterior-posterior minima. In the eyes-closed condition, a time main effect (P < .05) for absolute TTB medial-lateral minima was observed. A time main effect was also noted in the posteromedial and posterolateral reach directions of the SEBT. When the scores for each group were pooled, improvement (P < .05) in self-reported function was demonstrated at 4-week follow-up. Rehabilitation using the Wii Fit and traditional exercises improved static postural control in patients with a history of lower extremity injury.

The process associated with motivation of a home-based Wii Fit exercise program among sedentary African American women with systemic lupus erythematosus

ObjectiveTo explore the process associated with the motivation for playing Wii Fit among patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). MethodsIndividual in-depth semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with 14 sedentary African American women with SLE to explore their experiences and reflect on their motivation for playing Wii Fit after completing a 10-week home-based Wii Fit exercise program. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using the constant comparative method to identify categories related to participants' motivation. Three authors independently sorted, organized and coded transcript text into categories, then combined the categories into themes and subthemes. ResultsIn addition to the two themes (Ethical principal of keeping a commitment, and Don't want to let anyone down) generic to home-based exercise trials, we identified five themes (Enjoyment, Health Benefits, Sense of Accomplishment, Convenience, and Personalized) that revealed why the participants were motivated to play the Wii Fit. Enjoyment had three subthemes: Interactive, Challenging, and Competitive with an embedded social element. However, several participants commented they were not able to do many activities, master certain games, or figure out how to play some; as a result, they were bored with the limited selection of activities that they could do. ConclusionsThe motivational elements of the Wii Fit may contribute to improved exercise motivation and adherence in select sedentary African American women with SLE. Results provide a better understanding on the important elements to incorporate in the development of sustainable home-based exercise programs with interactive health video games for this population.

Poster 156 Examining the Effects of Nintendo Wii Fit Exercise Program in Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis

Poster 156 Examining the Effects of Nintendo Wii Fit Exercise Program in Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis

Using Wii Fit to reduce fatigue among African American women with systemic lupus erythematosus: A pilot study

Fatigue and physical deconditioning are common, difficult to treat conditions among patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a home-based exercise program using the Wii Fit system in patients with SLE. Fifteen sedentary African American women with SLE experiencing moderate to severe fatigue participated in a home exercise program using the Wii Fit 3 days a week for 30 minutes each for 10 weeks. A one-group pretest-post test design was used to evaluate the effectiveness of this program. Primary outcome measure was severity of fatigue. Secondary outcome measures were body weight, waist circumference, fatigue-related symptoms of distress, activity level, and physical fitness. At the completion of the 10-week Wii Fit exercise program, participants perceived fatigue severity as measured by the Fatigue Severity Scale to be significantly decreased (p = 0.002), and body weight and waist circumference were significantly reduced (p = 0.01). In addition, anxiety level, as measured by Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and overall intensity of total pain experience, as measured by Short-form of the McGill Pain Questionnaire, were also significantly reduced (p < 0.05). Findings provide preliminary evidence that the Wii Fit motivates this population to exercise, which leads to alleviation of fatigue and reduced body weight, waist circumference, anxiety level, and overall intensity of total pain experience.

Potential Benefits of Nintendo Wii Fit Among People with Multiple Sclerosis

We examined the potential of Nintendo Wii Fit (Nintendo Co, Ltd, Kyoto, Japan) to increase physical activity (PA) behavior and health among people with multiple sclerosis (MS). The study consisted of a repeated-measures design with a baseline control period and involved 30 people with MS who had the ability to walk 25 feet with or without a cane (26 individuals were included in the analyses). Nintendo Wii was set up in the homes of participants, who were prescribed a Wii Fit exercise program lasting 14 weeks, 3 days a week. The Physical Activity and Disability Survey, Modified Fatigue Impact Scale, and 36-item Short Form Health Status Survey were administered three times before participants gained access to Wii Fit (control period, at 2-week intervals), and three times after they received Wii Fit (posttest 1: immediately after; posttest 2: 7 weeks after; posttest 3: 14 weeks after). Mobility, balance, strength, and weight were assessed at the first pretest, immediately prior to obtaining access to Wii Fit, and 7 weeks after obtaining access to Wii Fit. Results from the questionnaires indicated that PA significantly improved at week 7, but at week 14, PA levels declined relative to week 7 and the difference was no longer significant compared with the control period. Physical assessments indicated that balance and strength significantly improved at week 7. One adverse event was reported (repetitive knee injury). Physical assessments indicated that people with MS may be able to improve their fitness levels by using Wii Fit. Future studies should incorporate behavior change strategies to promote long-term use of Wii Fit, and explore whether individuals with more severe symptoms of MS can safely use Wii Fit.

The Acute Physiological Responses Of Youth To an Interactive Video Game

PURPOSE: More and more youth are participating in interactive video games that require some form of physical activity. There have been few studies evaluating youth and the energy cost and physiological responses of interactive video game systems.The purpose of this investigation was to determine the acute physiological responses in youth to the Nintendo Wii Fit video game system as compared to maximal treadmill testing, and to determine the exercise intensity of this form of training. METHODS: Ten participants (5 boys and 5 girls) with the following characteristics (mean ± SD): age (10.30 ± 1.06 yrs.), height (142.0 ± 10.6 cm), and weight (34.7 ± 9.6 kg) were examined during two separate exercise testing sessions: maximal treadmill test to determine VO2 max (ml.kg-1.min-1), and Nintendo Wii Fit exercise test (18 min.). During the Nintendo Wii Fit exercise performance evaluation, 3 games were evaluated (hula hoop, running, and basic stepping). Each condition was played for a total of 6 minutes with 2.5 min. rest intervals between each condition. Participants also performed a modified Bruce maximal treadmill test. The physiological responses for both maximal treadmill testing and Wii Fit were determined by indirect calorimetry (Cosmed K4b2). Heart rate was monitored with a polar heart rate monitor. RESULTS: The results of maximal treadmill testing were VO2 max = 53.60 ± 6.24 (ml.kg-1.min-1), maximal HR = 201.0 ± 8.3 bts.min-1, RER = 1.27 ± 0.11. The responses to the Wii Fit hula hoop were: kcal = 3.16 ± 0.86 kcal.min-1, VO2 = 18.24 ± 4.94 ml.kg-1.min-1, HR = 137.00 ± 16.32 bts.min-1.The responses to the Wii Fit running were: kcal= 3.45 ± 0.71 kcal.min-1, VO2 = 19.92 ± 4.07 ml.kg-1.min-1, HR = 134.00 ± 18.90 bts.min-1. The responses to the Wii Fit basic stepping were kcal = 2.01 ± 0.37 kcal.min-1, VO2 = 11.57 ± 2.15 ml.kg-1.min-1, HR = 112.00 ± 10.59 bts.min-1. The metabolic responses for the Wii Fit were 31 percent of VO2 max and 63 percent of HR max. The average energy cost was 2.89 kcal's.min-1. CONCLUSIONS: This investigation found that Wii Fit produced a mean metabolic response of 4.7 METS and a mean %HR max = 63% and %HRR max = 44%. According ACSM's Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription, the intensity level for Wii Fit would be classified as light to moderate intensity exercise.

A Wii Fit Exercise Program in Healthy Community Dwelling Older Adults

A Wii Fit Exercise Program in Healthy Community Dwelling Older Adults