United Healthcare in collaboration with Konami have announced at the 2013 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) a joint effort to reduce childhood obesity through Dance Dance Revolution (DDR). DDR is the latest installment of the popular dance games which encourage physical activity among gamers.
DDR Classroom Edition is an interactive video game, also known as an “exergame,” which combines physical activity with energetic music and visuals. When students play Dance Dance Revolution, teachers receive vital information about their students’ health including BMI and calorie burn rate.
Konami and United Healthcare launched the game at three schools The participating schools with assistance will use the game to track its impact on students’ health, well-being and exercise habits.
Clara Baum, the senior director of strategic marketing at Konami spoke about the program stating;
“DDR introduced a generation of young people to an innovative and fun approach to physical activity. With the recent launch of our Classroom Edition and Konami’s collaboration with United Healthcare, we see the healthy lifestyle benefits of expanding the active video games or ‘exergaming’ platform and making this fun, physical activity system available to as many people as possible.”
The program has built on United Healthcare’s deep expertise in developing practical solutions to control childhood obesity, including collaborations with schools. This latest collaboration will also be incorporated into ‘Activate for Kids,’ a program operated by United Healthcare in partnership with school systems throughout Florida, Georgia and Texas.
Studies have shown that “exergaming” has the potential to reduce the growing obesity epidemic in children and adults. Dance Dance Revolution has garnered support from companies including the ADA and Sony Music.
Dr. Reed Tuckson from United Healthcare also spoke about the program adding;
“DDR teaches kids that physical activity can be fun and enjoyable, while fostering the development of healthy attitudes and habits that can last a lifetime.”…”By developing innovative collaborations that engage young people in improving their health, we are taking an important step toward reducing childhood obesity.”
Dance Dance Revolution is a music and motion game that combines fun, fitness, dance and music. Since its introduction in 2001 DDR has received exposure for its health benefits. The game is known for actively encouraging physical activity among gamers.
For more information, please visit: www.konami.com/ddr.
