Is the Nintendo Wii a real option for exercise? Is the video game system really going to make a difference for those that need physical activity? For those that are at higher physical level, will it improve any factors/sport-specific motions? What will the Nintendo Wii Fit and balance board really do? These are some of the questions posed from a rehab standpoint, and I would like address the possible benefits available from a rehab/exercise perspective.
1. Simple Aerobic
The title says it all there. The Nintendo Wii video game system has the potential to get someone off of their backside and up on their feet. The simple motions will help the most sedentary patients/individuals or obese patients get some mild increases in aerobic output. The journey begins with a small step, and for those who feel they cannot do much of anything, what a great way to start.
2. Stability Training
I think this is where the Wii does the most to improve all levels of rehab. For the most basic patient, it can be used to get their hands off of their cane, walker etc, and get them using their arms while trying to maintain a non-supported base of support. The little bit of arm movement in multiple planes of motion will test their dynamic balance as well.
But now add in higher level, maybe younger kids with muscle imbalance issues. The Wii can be a fun way to address these balance difficulties, along with adding in motions far out of their base, performing on a single leg, or even disrupting their standing surface with foam, dynadiscs or other balance tools. The motions can get sport-specific, a pitcher for instance can do single leg stance on their dominant leg, practicing the initial wind up and hip rotation while following through with the throw. It is amazing how quick the time will fly when you can add the video game dynamic in.
3. Core Strength
Another excellent way to put the Wii to use. The Wii come with a variety of fun sport games, but also has the potential to play numerous other games. Why not grab a physioball, one of the large balance plastic balls and sit on it while you play? The ball is a great way to get core stability, and with the extra arm movement that you do, you can expect to be working your core even more.
4. Strength Training
Even though the control for the Nintendo Wii does not weigh all that much, why not add some resistance for your play? Something as simple as wrist weights around your arm while you swing through on your golf swing or tennis serve, the added weight will help build muscle strength, but again in a fun easy environment to learn how to build strength.
5. Balance
This is where the new Nintendo Wii Fit comes into play. The new game focuses on the idea of exercise as a lifestyle, with a balance board peripheral being the main addition. The board will be a scale, a BMI reader and a force plate to read and monitor even small changes in your stability. The games will include shifting a ball on screen on a surface-similar to the children's marble game labyrinth.
The board will be useful in a variety of ways. First, for those that are older and have weight shifting or balance issues the biofeedback that the force plate will register gives a good on-screen monitor of their progress. What a fun way to show the patient or client that needs a way to register their advancement.
Next, you can advance their progress into fun games. The Wii Fit game comes with skiing, snowboarding and other fun balance/leg strengthening games. The sport exercises let you enjoy the game while still improving strength and balance.
6. Exercise Plan
The Nintendo Wii Fit will monitor you with a full exercise program right on your Wii. The exercises include pilates and yoga programs, with onscreen cues and technique clips.
The game keeps you accountable, monitoring your progress and your areas of need and how you can help keep yourself fit. So not only does it provide a place to play games and give you exercise routines it also keeps you accountable.
Overall, the Nintendo Wii has a lot of potential for exercise and rehab uses. The Nintendo Wii Fit and Nintendo Wii itself provide multiple opportunities for creative outside the box rehabilitation and training in core, balance and strength. I look forward to seeing the many uses that will be put to use with this exciting new piece of electronics.
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