Fitness + Technology = Fun!

YMCA's and several other nonprofit organizations across the country offer many of the same services including traditional sport programs for youth.

This used to be ideal. But is this true today?

This population of children, adolescents and emerging adults is much different than it was years ago. Both youth and adults are less active, more overweight, and seemingly consumed with modern technology.

This generation communicates on Twitter, shares on Facebook, downloads music, videos and television shows to their IPod and spends more time each week in front of a screen playing games than some spend at their full-time job.

Our society is now more interested in technology than traditional physical activity. It is now the job of organizations such as the YMCA, to bring innovative technology based solutions to the table. Active gaming is one way to target youth not interested in ball bouncing activities as it unites technology, exercise and fun.

Each year, approximately 20 million children sign up to play youth sports. By the age of 13, somewhere around 70 percent never play sports again. A Michigan State study surveyed 10,000 children grades 7-12 and found that the number one reason kids play sports is to have fun and they stop playing when it is not fun any longer.

Active gaming is today's answer to making exercise fun and engaging. Children learn how to interact with others, acquire skills that can bring them a sense of accomplishment and learn to overcome obstacles. They also learn how to handle success and learn from failure. They tend to enjoy the experience and want to continue playing. Active gaming will not replace traditional sports, but it does provide an appealing option.

The YMCA of Clay County recently opened its new and the area's first interactive kids fitness center called the XRKade. It was designed and created to allow for a safe, fun and interactive environment for gamers of all ages. It is a unique social setting and allows gamers to interact with peers and family members.

The Active Gaming equipment found in the XRKade provides many physical benefits that include cardiovascular, muscular strength, core training, coordination, balance and stability. The equipment allows for a wide variety of uses all while combining traditional fitness with fun.

To create your Xperience, visit the YMCA of Clay County XRKade or call 442-6761 for additional details.

Additional information on active gaming can be found at www.onsitefitness.com/8.09/Active_gaming... or www.itechfitness.com.