The YMCA offers a variety of fitness programs that are designed to improve your child’s overall coordination, endurance and strength while having fun and making friends in a safe, welcoming environment. But YMCA’s are continuously looking for new ways to excite this “new generation” of kids who are enthralled with technology.
We had the opportunity to work with the YMCA of Central Florida as they looked to build a new Y. They were looking for ways to engage not only teens, but adults and seniors as well. This space has now become one of the MOST popular spots in the Y! Exergaming can be a powerful tool to motivate kids to be active by blending physical activity with the engaging and immersive experience of video games. Here are several ways in which exergaming encourages and sustains kids’ interest in physical activity:
- Fun Factor: Exergames are designed to be entertaining and enjoyable. By combining physical activity with elements of play, competition, and storytelling, they make exercise more appealing to children, tapping into their intrinsic motivation to have fun.
- Friendly Competition: Many exergames incorporate competitive elements, allowing kids to compete against each other or set personal records. This sense of competition can motivate them to push themselves and engage in more physical activity.
- Multiplayer Options: Many exergames offer multiplayer options, enabling kids to play with friends or family. Social interaction and collaboration add an extra layer of enjoyment, making physical activity a social and shared experience.
- Adaptability for All Ages: Exergames can be adapted to suit different age groups and skill levels, making them inclusive for children of various abilities. This adaptability ensures that all kids can find games that are appropriate and enjoyable for their fitness levels.
- Use of Technology: Kids are often drawn to technology, and exergaming leverages this interest. The use of motion-sensing technology, virtual reality, or augmented reality makes the experience novel and appealing to tech-savvy children.
By combining the allure of video games with physical activity, exergaming provides a holistic and enjoyable approach to motivating kids to be active, fostering a positive attitude toward exercise that can have lasting benefits for their health and well-being.
Contact us to learn more about how to bring this to your YMCA!