In my last blog, I discussed how exercise is disappearing from your student’s schedules. The decision to limit how much Physical Education your student is exposed to each day is leading to many problems such as obesity. I decided that we need to provide a solution to get parents and students moving in the right direction. As an educator, I decided to incorporate more technology into my classroom. I’m not talking about heart monitors or pedometers; I’m talking about student-friendly technology. Students struggle with making exercise something they enjoy. It is time to move into the world of video game exercise. During PE classes next semester, I will be providing ideas for your student on how to use Nintendo Wii and Xbox to improve their fitness. These two companies offer two excellent systems that allow students and their families to exercise in a new way. I know not all students enjoy the traditional PE class that involves running, playing a sport and stretching…and that’s okay!
I hope to engage you in a video game workout that will allow more exercise and improve your fitness level. The game systems we will use are already in most homes allowing students to share what they have learned with their parents. If you do not have a video game system they can be rented at Rent-A-Center and workout and other active games can easily be rented at Redbox, Gamefly subscription, or Family Video. If you are interested in purchasing a game system they are available at all major retail stores and can also be purchased new and used on eBay and at GameStop. These video systems have a tracking program that will show each student and their parents their fitness level and how they are improving. This is also a great tool for me, as I can assess each student’s progress.
I hope you will enjoy this challenge. Exercise has to be an essential part of our lives. It is important that parents and students try to find some form of exercise that you will enjoy and participate in daily. It is even better if you can find an activity to enjoy as a family. This USA Today article discusses using Wii Fit in homes last summer as part of Nintendo's Family Fitness Challenge.
This will be the first year I have implemented this fitness tool in my classroom. I feel that it is important for parents to support and help their children. Parents are role models and children copy and learn habits from them. So why not have a family night to incorporate your 30 minutes of exercise? Your student will be surprised and excited because you are engaging in their video world. Remember, exercise can be fun and should not be dreaded. Try to make it part of your lifestyle and it will become a habit!
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