Computer game that may fight obesity
An article by Sarah
Posted February 3, 2009 
Computer games have gained a bad reputation over their development, suggesting they have addictive qualities, prevent activity and contain scenes which are violent. But now there may be something out there that will reduce obesity rates.
Blondie drummer, Clem Burke has teamed up with British researchers to investigate the potential health benefits of playing drumming-based interactive computer games.
Academics plan to explore what effects popular games such as Guitar Hero World Tour (GHWT) can have on childhood and adult obesity, autism and stroke patients.
Last year scientists from the two universities found that professional drummers have a heart rate similar to Premiership footballers
Investigations will also centre on whether introducing interactive video games in the workplace could aid stress release and improve productivity among staff.
The Clem Burke Drumming Project was officially launched on the 21st July 2008 but it will be a year-long venture, providing results throughout 2009, it has been set up with the University of Chichester in West Sussex and the University of Gloucestershire.
Dr Marcus Smith, lecturer in exercise physiology at the University of Chichester, said they were also interested in monitoring people who progress from playing interactive drumming games to real-life drums.
He said: “As researchers we are interested in understanding why such games are so appealing and how they may be used to investigate specific research questions.
“We are particularly interested in examining the effects of playing GHWT on child and adult obesity, autism, stroke patients, disengaged communities and health and mental well-being in the workplace.
“We are very excited about investigating the potential benefits of introducing interactive video games into the workplace. Offices around the UK could be transformed into rock venues, resulting in stress release and fun for staff and increased productivity.”
Last year scientists from the two universities found that professional drummers have a heart rate similar to Premiership footballers as they expend large amounts of energy during live performances.
Dr Steve Draper, lecturer in exercise physiology at the University of Gloucestershire, said: “Drumming video games are particularly exciting as they may provide an enjoyable and effective means to acquire the complex motor skills required to play on any drum kit.”
Take an in-depth look at the project by visiting the website.
