title: Physiological and Perceptual Responses to Nintendo® Wii Fit™ in Young and Older Adults.
abstract: Physically active video gaming (AVG) provides a technologically-modern, convenient means of increasing physical activity (PA). This study examined cardiovascular, metabolic, and perceptual responses in young adult (AP) and older adult (OP) participants engaging in Wii FitTMAVG play, and compared PA levels during play to recommended PA levels. Heart rate (HR), percent heart rate reserve (%HRR), oxygen consumption (VO2), energy expenditure (EE), rating of perceived exertion (RPE), enjoyment level (EL), and step count data were obtained from 10 YP and 10 OP during 15 minutes of rest and four 15-minute bouts of Wii FitTMactivities (yoga, balance, aerobics, strength). For all participants, AVG significantly increased HR, VO2, and EE measures above rest, with significant between-activity differences. Responses were similar between YP and OP, except that the activities were more intense for OP, in terms of %HRR and RPE. Most games elicited responses consistent with light-intensity PA, though peak HR and VO2values for aerobic and strength games met or approached recommended PA intensities. Wii FitTMappears to provide an enjoyable form of light PA for both YP and OP, which can reduce inactive screen time and provide beneficial cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and metabolic stimulation.
authors.affiliation: Department of Human Performance and Exercise Science, Youngstown State University, Youngstown, OH, USA.
authors.forename: Nicole M
authors.initials: NM
authors.lastname: Mullins
authors.affiliation: Department of Human Performance and Exercise Science, Youngstown State University, Youngstown, OH, USA.
authors.forename: Kathryn A
authors.initials: KA
authors.lastname: Tessmer
authors.affiliation: Summa Institute for Clinical Research and Innovation, Summa Health System, Akron, OH.
authors.forename: Michele L
authors.initials: ML
authors.lastname: McCarroll
authors.affiliation: Department of Human Performance and Exercise Science, Youngstown State University, Youngstown, OH, USA.
authors.forename: Brian P
authors.initials: BP
authors.lastname: Peppel
keywords: Active video gaming; energy expenditure; exergaming; physical activity; screen time