Vigorous Energy Expenditure with a Dance Exer-game.

Physical inactivity is a risk factor for heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Efforts to increase physical activity can include active video games. While many active video games demonstrate exertion levels commensurate with light to moderate exercise, it is unclear whether these games can meet requirements for vigorous activity. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the active video game, Dance Dance Revolution (DDR), can provide vigorous exercise in a wide range of adults. Twelve adults (18 to 53 yrs, BMI 18 to 37) were studied while playing DDR at an advanced level. Metabolic measures were collected during a 30 min game-play protocol at the advanced "Heavy" level of difficulty. Mean values achieved were the following: 8 METs, heart rate 157 beats⋅min^-1, and energy expenditure 9 kcal⋅min^-1. DDR is played similarly to that of interval type exercise where each game-song is followed by a brief rest period. Subjects reported that DDR is fun, and that the competitive nature of playing with others is enjoyable. This study found that DDR is effective in meeting vigorous physical activity requirements for improving or maintaining physical fitness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]