A Wii bit of exercise

While the winter weather may deter people from leaving their homes to hit the gym, electronics such as Wii Fit and Wii Sports serve as a substitute for more traditional forms of exercise.

Although these games have become increasingly popular as a whole, many Sacred Heart University students said they prefer more traditional styles of exercise.

"I have Wii Sports and Zumba," said junior Sherrod Williamson. "However I'd rather go to the gym because there are other people and it is much more fun doing [Zumba] with a group of people."

According to junior Abshir Aden, the Wii exercise games go against traditional video game qualities because they require the player to physically participate in a more demanding way.

"Video games are supposed to be a lazy thing," Aden said. "I don't want to stand up to play them."

While the new trend of "exergaming" may not be popular among college students, recent studies have linked their use by the elderly population to increased cognition and decreased dementia.

The Cyber Cycle Study incorporated indoor bike equipment with virtual reality displays, and enrolled volunteers from independent living facilities. The researchers' goal was to show the benefit of interactive physical and cognitive exercise over more traditional exercises. 

According to the study, those who used the bikes with the display experienced a 23 percent reduction in progression to mild cognitive impairment compared to those using a traditional bike.

While these "exergames" are beneficial to the elderly population, sophomore Chris Rivera thinks they are tailored for certain age groups.

"It appeals to a certain market, but I don't feel that it appeals to everybody," said Rivera. "I don't think it's going to be too popular but it will have its fair share of supporters."

Although these games may not be popular among students when used individually, senior Brittany MacVittie said that her entire family uses the Wii Fit and Wii Sports games. According to her, it's a more economical way to get fit.

"It costs a lot of money for the membership to the gym that we have close by," MacVittie said.

While "exergames" provide an alternative to traditional types of exercise, some students who have yet to try them said they would be willing.

"I would try them just because of my interest in sports," said junior Kiley Evans. "I know a lot of my friends have it, but I just never have really been into video games."