activity & play
Electronic play has continued to grow in popularity by satisfying a desire for interactivity and by providing the stimulus of competition. Many such play concepts directly target health and are designed to elevate activity levels and improve the heart rate.
Devising games that get the heart racing
T
HE introduction of the new PlayAlive equipment coincides with a study (1) showing that fitness levels of British
children are falling twice as quickly as the global average, with youngsters being significantly less fit than they were a decade ago. Sedentary lifestyles are to blame, according to the researchers. PlayAlive, developed by Wicksteed Playscapes, combines traditional play with electronics. Ostensibly just a large climbing frame, the giant spider-shaped unit interlaced with web-like climbing ropes comes alive with sounds and flashing coloured lights. A central computer console allows interactive electronic games to be played via satellites around the structure. Both individual and team games can be chosen and the satellites respond with sound and light through touch. The electronic system can be adapted to
The physical activity recommendation for children is to accumulate at least 60 minutes per day of moderate to vigorous activity. Therefore any play equipment that encourages children to exercise regularly will be hugely beneficial to their health and wellbeing.
Dr Jacky Forsyth, senior lecturer in Exercise Physiology Sport & Exercise, Staffordshire University
provide play for disabled children by creating linked satellites at low level, along a wheelchair friendly route or within a sensory garden for example.
Activity levels
Researchers from Staffordshire University’s Centre for Sport and Exercise Research studied children aged 9-11 playing on the PlayAlive concept and found they were exercising mostly at between 60-80% of their age-related maximum heart rate, which equates to moderate to vigorous physical activity. Based on the average heart rate
profiles, it was estimated that the children were using approximately 100- 220kcal (calories) for each 15 minutes they spent on the equipment. They continued to expend further calories after they had finished using PlayAlive as their heart rates continued to be raised after they had stopped. As well as aerobic activity, use of the unit also promotes flexibility, agility, balance and co-ordination. After one minute of no activity, the PlayAlive will automatically go into hibernation mode. It uses low volt electricity or solar power and all cables are fully protected and out of children’s reach. The sound levels and hours of use can be controlled to prevent the equipment becoming a nuisance to nearby residents. Both the structure and satellites are made from durable materials.
(1) Archives of Disease in Childhood Journal, December 2009
www.wicksteed.co.uk
edbmagazine.co.uk 57
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