Can a new video game fix childhood obesity?

According to an article I just read, yesterday was the beginning of a worldwide reversal to childhood obesity.

This is such a big deal that I’m sure you’ve heard about it. In fact, I’d bet that a vast majority of the population in developed countries know about it.

Do you know what I’m talking about? It’s the introduction of the “Wii” — Nintendo’s newest video game console.

How is it possible that a video game (which is often blamed for the increase in childhood obesity) could now be the solution?

Well, the new Wii has a wireless, motion-activated game-control device that requires players to wave it around rather than just push buttons with their thumbs.

So, to play tennis, you must stand up and swing at the ball on the screen just like you’d swing a real tennis racquet. In fighting games, you throw punches at your on-screen opponent. Users have reported being drenched with sweat after just a couple of games.

Personally, I think this sounds very cool. I can’t wait to get to my local Best Buy to try it out. However, I’m very confident it won’t do anything to address our childhood obesity problem.

Sure, it makes all kinds of sense for kids to be more active — doing things that are fun. Without question, exercise — in ANY form — is the very best thing we can all do for our health.

But, more exercise is not the solution to childhood obesity — for any age group. In my course, I explain why.

Allen Oelschlaeger
Author of The Straight Scoop About Childhood Obesity