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Published on: June 5, 2019
Acute cardiovascular responses while playing virtual games simulated by Nintendo Wii(®)
Gusthavo Augusto Alves Rodrigues1, Danilo De Souza Felipe1, Elisangela Silva1
1Group of Studies and Research in Health Sciences (GEP-CS), Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of The South of Minas Gerais (IFSULDEMINAS), Brazil.
Playing Nintendo Wii(®) aerobic games significantly impacts cardiovascular responses, offering moderate-intensity exercise. Balance games provide light-intensity activity, supporting virtual reality in fitness programs.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Virtual Reality Technology
- Cardiovascular Health
Background:
- Virtual reality (VR) gaming offers novel platforms for physical activity.
- The Nintendo Wii(®) system provides interactive games that simulate physical exercises.
- Understanding the physiological demands of VR gaming is crucial for its integration into fitness programs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the acute cardiovascular responses during aerobic and balance games on the Nintendo Wii(®).
- To determine the exercise intensity of virtual reality games based on established guidelines.
Main Methods:
- Nineteen healthy males participated in the study.
- Ergospirometric variables including maximum oxygen consumption and heart rate were measured during specific Wii Fit Plus(®) aerobic and balance games.
- Data were analyzed using repeated measures analysis of variance and Scheffe's test.
Main Results:
- Significant differences in cardiovascular responses were observed between aerobic and balance games.
- Wii aerobic games were classified as moderate-intensity exercise.
- Wii balance games were classified as light-intensity exercise, aligning with American College of Sports Medicine guidelines.
Conclusions:
- Virtual reality exercise, particularly Wii aerobic games, can elicit significant acute cardiovascular responses.
- The Nintendo Wii(®) system is a viable tool for incorporating physical activity into structured programs.
- VR gaming demonstrates potential for promoting cardiovascular health and fitness.
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