GLASGOW The latest generation of “active” computer games can provide as much exercise in 35 minutes as a short aerobics class or a brisk one-hour walk, research suggests.
A study to be presented today at the Life Sciences conference found that games systems where players have to wave their arms and move around can actually boost fitness.
Alasdair Thin, of Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, who conducted the research, said: “Playing these video games can actually provide an effective workout.
It’s not a substitute for an aerobics class or going for a run, but it is equivalent in burning calories.” The research may provide some comfort to parents concerned about children spending hours playing the Nintendo Wii or Sony PlayStation EyeToy.
Smokers are more likely to lose muscle mass and strength in old age than nonsmokers, according to research from the University of Nottingham also presented at the conference.