Tag: overweight-kids

Courtesy of reachphysio.com

Last week the results of a recent study published in the journal Pediatrics disproved the belief held by many parents that playing “active” video games like Wii Fit and Dance Dance Revolution could increase their kids’ activity levels. However, before you throw away your Wii Fit systems and go back to the drawing board, let’s take a look at the study to determine whether video game fitness really is too good to be true.

• Researchers from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, TX gave Wii consoles to 78 kids (ages 9-12 and above average weight).
• Half the kids were given their choice of two “active” games (e.g. Wii Sports) and the other half were given their choice of two “inactive” games (e.g. Super Mario Galaxy).
• Kids’ activity levels were measured for 13 weeks using an accelerometer (a motion-measuring device) worn on the belt.
• Accelerometer logs showed that throughout the study period, kids with the active games didn’t get any more exercise than those given inactive video games, with both ranging between 25-29 minutes of moderate or vigorous physical activity each day.

• Accelerometers have been shown to monitor activity accurately, however, the location of the accelerometer can impact what movement is actually recorded. For example, an accelerometer on a kid’s belt may not be able to pick up all of the motion generated by the upper body in a boxing game.
• Actual game time logged was not recorded.
• Other “active” game systems such as “Kinect” involve more full-body interaction than the Wii.
• Fitness games aren’t interesting enough to hold a kid’s attention.

Courtesy of wii.gamezone.com

It’s the last “Ask the Trainer” post for the year, and Kim Myga is answering your questions this month.

Kim began her career in the fitness field nine years ago after working for many years as a nanny to four children. She was inspired to enter the field after creating workouts and dietary guidelines for a diabetic friend, who after months of following Kim’s protocol, was taken off her diabetes medication. 

In addition to training, Kim is also passionate about Pilates and teaches classes as well.

Reader Question: I read somewhere that the metabolic benefit of exercising in the morning or the evening depended upon your body weight. Is this true?  What are the benefits of morning vs. evening cardio workouts?

Kim: I haven’t read any evidence that supports this.  As for what time to do cardio workouts, keep in mind that it’s consistency and completion that’s most important. Your training needs to involve a routine that works for you.  If you have more energy in the morning, get it done early. Just be sure to eat something before.  If you’re an evening person, train later.  Exercise does help with achieving better sleep; however make sure you leave enough time for the body to settle before going to bed.

Reader Question: I’m finding it difficult to find enough time to do cardio, weight training, and stretching/relaxation exercises each week during this busy holiday season. Is there a particular class or group of classes that you could recommend that would incorporate all these activities?

Kim: First, pencil yourself into your schedule. Just as you may plan a lunch date, plan a workout.  Fortunately, we offer a variety of classes that combine activities. These include Spinyassa, Cardio Strength Conditioning, boot camps, Total Body Conditioning, Cardio Kickboxing and more.  Or, treat yourself this holiday and check out our 30-minute classes, which include Kinesis and Pilates.   

Reader Question: I have no fewer than 12 holiday parties to attend in the next month. Weight management is high on my list of priorities, and I don’t want to backslide (I’ve lost 30 pounds this year). Besides the usual advice of never going to a party hungry and not overdoing the alcohol, how can I make certain I don’t have 10 pounds to lose in January?

Kim: Weight management and mingling this time of year can be challenging.  Try scheduling a complementary fitness evaluation so you are aware of your current progress.  Then, write down your goals and read them daily.  Stay focused and enjoy the company of your family and friends more than the cocktails and dinners.

Reader Question: My 14-year-old daughter is overweight and her pediatrician has encouraged me to assist her with healthy eating and exercise. I am cooking more healthfully at home, but what do you recommend in terms of exercise? Are there any machines she can safely use at the club?

Kim: It’s so important to teach children a healthy lifestyle, including nutrition and exercise.  Midtown offers a “Teen Permit.”  This includes a free orientation with a fitness professional.  He/she will teach your child how to use the equipment safely.  Also, check the schedule for kids after school classes as well.  They are interactive, motivational, and fun.  

Reader Question: I have friends who use Hydroxycut  for weight loss. I know it’s dangerous, but I have to admit that they look pretty good. What is your professional opinion on using it?

Kim: It sounds like you’ve answered your own question. Your body is an incredible machine. Use your body and your mind to achieve your fitness goals.  That’s all you need.  

Reader Question: I have used a particular Midtown trainer a few times now to develop new weight-training programs.  I have been very pleased, but I am starting to see some repetition in the programs and am considering trying a different trainer to change things up.  Is this considered poor form?  I don’t want to offend the original trainer but I also want to get the most out of my sessions.

Kim: Your trainer shouldn’t feel offended.  I believe it’s important to have variety.  Personally, I like my clients to work with other trainers when I’m out of town.  Each trainer has different knowledge and skill sets.  We can all learn from each other.  I do advise you to speak with your current trainer before working with someone new.  As a trainer, we want all of our members to get the most out of their sessions.  Your goals are our goals too.

Thank you, Kim!

Do you have a question for one of the trainers? Post your question as a comment to this post, or email it to me at kristi@meetme-atmidtown.com. If you email the question, I will ask it anonymously on your behalf, and post the question and answer (but not your name) on the next “Ask the Trainer” post. You do not need to be a member to ask a question.

 You can find past “Ask the Trainer” posts here.)