With Nintendo’s Wii game system, video games can provide much needed exercise for people with limited mobility, as well as providing hours of fun and entertainment.
About a year ago, Nintendo introduced a new game console, the Wii. The Wii uses handheld wireless remotes containing motion sensors to let the player control the characters in the game they are playing. The sensors in the remote are connected to the sensor bar that sits on top of the television and picks up even the slightest movement of the player’s hand.
So how can this provide some exercise for those with limited mobility?
As case in point would be me. I got my Wii last January and hardly a day passes that I don’t use it. I found that Wii Sports is a fun way to get some exercise.
With games including baseball, tennis, bowling, golf and boxing, there is something for everyone of every mobility level. A half an hour of making precise tennis swings or trying to hit as many home runs as you can is more of a workout than you would think. For those of you who have use of both arms, try boxing. Throwing punches and avoiding jabs from your opponent with both arms swinging can be a lot of work.
And with the additions of new games all the time, there’s something to suit everyone.
Just cinch the remote strap around your wrist and you’re on your way. I’ve read that people who are not able to grip the remote use duct tape or medical tape to secure the remote in their hand. An Ace bandage would also serve this purpose nicely.
So go turn on your video games and get exercising!
