A report this week has highlighted that active video games such as ‘Just Dance’ or ‘Wii Sports’ for the Nintendo's Wii or 'Dance Dance Revolution' for the Playstation, can help children reach their daily level of recommended exercise. The studies researchers say “these games could be a good way to increase activity, if they replace games played while sitting.”

Active video games, which require movement as if taking part in a real sport, exercise class, or other activity, have become more popular recently.

The study involved 39 children aged 12. The researchers tested their energy output while using a range of games, and also while walking on a treadmill at 3 miles per hour. Six games systems were tested: three products aimed at consumers, and three sold to gyms and physical education organisations.

All the games increased children's energy output to moderate or vigorous exercise levels. Of the games tested, Wii Boxing had the lowest energy expenditure. The highest was for Jackie Chan Alley Run, available on the Xavix system (which is on sale in America).Children playing Wii boxing or Dance Dance Revolution had about the same energy output as children walking on a treadmill. The other games had a higher energy output.

The study also measured children's enjoyment of the games. Girls enjoyed dancing games the most, whereas boys were most keen on Wii Boxing. Interestingly, the children who were heaviest enjoyed the games more. The researchers point out that enjoyment is important, because children are more likely to do exercise if they find it fun.