Walk into a house full of college students, or better yet, any age from five to 99.
The voices in the room might be screaming "Hole in one!" or "Strike!"
However, these people are not playing actual games of golf and bowling.
They are using the Wii gaming system, Nintendo's newest invention.
Dr. David Pascoe, professor of kinesiology, said he believes that video games can be beneficial to the user's health depending on if the user treats it as a workout or not.
"Some video games are just entertaining. Whether or not Wii is useful in helping the user stay in shape depends on the amount of work they are putting into it," said Pascoe. "You can experience a mild heart increase playing any video game."
Nintendo first introducedWii Active and then Wii Fit shortly after.
According to Wii.com, Wii Active uses a hand-held device known as the Nunchuck to use for a variety of games such as bowling, golf, tennis and boxing.
The Wii Fit consists of a balance board that is used for activities including yoga, balance games, strength training and aerobics.
Both games have the same purpose: to serve as a blend of fun and fitness.
Although the games are meant to serve as forms of fitness, many seem to question their reliability.
Ceren Yarar, a graduate student in neuromechanics, said an adequate workout must consist of more than just the Wii.
"Only using the Wii will not keep you in shape," Yarar said. "You shouldn't replace regular exercises, such as running outside, with the Wii."
Though the Wii gaming systems may not provide the same effect as running a few miles, John Quiendry, professor of kinesiology, said some exercise is better than no exercise at all.
"Although the Wii Active does not provide an adequate workout, it is fun to do anyway," Quiendry said. "It's better than just sitting around."
According to Wii.com, the Wii gaming systems were designed to give each user the type of workout for their own body.
In other words, an aerobics workout on the Wii Fit for one user might be the equivalent of two games of golf on Wii Active for another user.
Unlike most other video games, Wii does provide opportunities to jump around instead of just punching buttons on a controller.
Pascoe said the greatest thing about the Wii gaming system is that it can bring together all types of people.
"It was reported that some Wii users in a retirement home got 'tennis elbow' from playing tennis on Wii Active," Pascoe said. "This goes to show that Wii is free of weight, gender and skill differences. It integrates different groups that couldn't have played the games in reality."
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