Video game gives kids a workout

Judy Fortin, CNN News

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The mat, shown in the picture, is connected to a video or television screen; while a song plays the user is prompted to step on a square to earn points. (CNN photo)

By Tiffany Griffin

Story Created: Mar 20, 2008 at 11:12 AM EST

Story Updated: Mar 20, 2008 at 11:58 AM EST

(CNN) — Trendy isn't always healthy, especially when it comes to video games. There's one product that is giving kids a workout.

Video dance mats are not only fun, but they're getting kids off the couch. The mat is connected to a video or television screen; while a song plays the user is prompted to step on a square to earn points.

“You don't just sit there and move your fingers, you move your feet and get active,” said 11-year-old Paul Teklead.

That's just what some adults want to hear.

“If kids are going to be engaging in video games why not have them be more active while they're doing it,” said Lorraine Lanningham from the Mayo Clinic.

Researchers at the Mayo Clinic compared the amount of energy expended by kids using low level video games compared with dance mats. The difference was not surprising: The dancers burned 5 to 6 times more calories.

For 14-year-old Caroline Davenport, it's made a big difference.

“I lost about 10 pounds,” said Davenport.

She practices her moves at a local library competition.

“It keeps them moving, they have to move very fast, it gives them quite a workout following all the images on the screen,” said Christopher Borawski from Wheaton Library.

It’s not just any workout, but one that's also fun.

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