A variety of new games available on the Nintendo Wii console may actually be helping gamers become healthier, a new study has revealed.
The National Institute of Health and Nutrition in Tokyo, which led the study, has found that the new Wii Fit games, in which users are required to use a scale-like device, may increase the amount of energy used to the levels seen in moderate exercise.
“It’s a very easy and fun way to start exercising,” said Motohiko Miyachi, head of a physical activity program at the NIHN.
While Miyachi said the study, which was funded by Nintendo, does not actually prove any health benefits of those games, he said an increased amount of time spent playing exercise-based games could help prevent some types of diseases.
Patrick Stafford is a freelance journalist and a former deputy editor of SmartCompany.
