Can ‘exergames’ help you get trim?

PROVIDENCE – Researchers at The Miriam Hospital are recruiting participants for an unusually entertaining study: a look at whether “exergames” on computer platforms such as Nintendo Wii can help people get in shape and improve their cardivascular health.
The study, “Wii Fitness,” is being conducted by the Miriam Centers for Behavioral and Preventive Medicine. It will go on for 12 weeks, with participants attending three sessions per week to “work out” with Wii games.
All participants will be tested for physical fitness at the start and end of the program, so researchers can gauge changes in overall physical fitness, strength, flexibility and cardiovascular disease risk.
The goal of the study is to determine whether these kinds of games are effective ways to help adults meet the national recommendations for physical activity, which include 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity every week.
The study is open to adults between the ages of 30-65 who are in good health but are not regular exercisers. Participants will be compensated for their time. For more information, contact Victoria Cobb at 578-9268 or wiifitness@lifespan.org.