No exercise, No game!

stepperA machine has been invented to encourage children to work out while playing computer games. The game's controller will only work if the child keeps up a constant pre-set rate of exercise, hence making sure that the kid gets some form of exercise while playing games. Because the system only controls the game's controller, and not the game itself, it can be used with any Playstation game. The game pauses while the controller is inactive. Some experts like Dr Ian Campbell, medical director of Weight Concern said the device would be "useful" but that it was "a terrible indictment on society" since it involves bribing children into physical activity. "It would be far better to encourage an increase in physical activity across the board, at both school and at home. And it might be an idea for parents to limit their children's access to the computer" Dr Ian commented.

Dr Colin Waine, Chairman of the National Obesity Forum, is in favour of the invention, claiming it could help prevent children becoming obese when they reach adolescence. "Physical inactivity is one of the major causes of the rise in obesity so anything that means children will be more active is to be welcomed. Sport doesn't appeal to everybody and we have got to think beyond the playing field. This machine is a novel way of getting children to be more active. I don't think it's a bribe, it's just an incentive."

Obesity in the United States has significantly risen in the past 20 years. Over 60 million adults and 9 million children are obese! Hence, we do hope that this new invention would help in tackling the obesity problem.

Link & Image: BBC
Tags: | |

Comments