Vigorous Physical Activity in Dance Exer-Game (study)

Image via WikipediaHere's a new article invloving adults playing from the ADAM lab on Long Island

Vigorous Energy Expenditure with a Dance Exer-game. JEPonline  2011;14(4):13-28. 

Physical inactivity is a risk factor for heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Efforts to increase physical activity can include active video games. While many active video games demonstrate exertion levels commensurate with light  to moderate exercise, it is unclear whether these games can meet requirements for vigorous activity. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the active videovgame, Dance Dance Revolution (DDR), can provide vigorous exercise vin a wide range of adults. Twelve adults (18 to 53 yrs, BMI 18 to 37) were studied while  playing DDR at an advanced level. Metabolic measures were collected during a 30  min game-play protocol  at the advanced  “Heavy” level of difficulty.  Mean values achieved were the following: 8 METs, heart rate 157 beats·min-1, and energy expenditure 9  kcal·min-1.  DDR is played similarly to that of interval type exercise where  each game-song is followed by a brief rest period. Subjects reported that  DDR  is fun, and that the competitive nature of playing with  others is enjoyable. This  study found that DDR is effective in meeting vigorous physical a requirements  for improving or maintaining physical fitness.

Click here to explore more of ExerGame Lab's archived posts involving research studies.