At Palo Alto College students can now get college credit for physical conditioning without ever setting foot in a gym. In fact, they don't even have to leave their home. Palo Alto is the first in the nation to offer an online Wii Fit conditioning course.
"We have a high rate of obesity, Bexar County has 60% in some areas, it's really epidemic," said Anna Bustamante, the Academic Chair of the Kinesiology Department.
So educators developed an innovative way for students to get fit.
"Using the games and technology and engaging students is the new way to go," explained Dr. Robert Garza, Deanof Student Affairs who came up with the idea for the course.
Students tackle downhill skiing, weight training and jogging using the popular Nintendo Wii Fit program.
"You're motivated to try to beat the game," said 19 year old student Shianna Guerra.
As if to prove the point, 20 year old Desmond Scalliion really stepped it up to cross the finish line first as he competed while watching the video game.
"Actually kind of got a work out there, it was pretty intense. But I liked it," Scallion said.
The course includes training in nutrition and exercise.
"I can really track what they're doing closely, they're not just keeping a journal. The machine records it and sends it," said Bustamante.
Students can try different types of work outs like yoga..
"It's good for people who are self conscious because you don't have to worry about being in a room full of people." said Guerra.
The school is already being contacted by others interested in the online program.
"I can easily see this evolving to a four year institution in dorm rooms and people working out and losing weight. We're hoping this cutting edge program serves as the national model," said Garza.
Registration just began for the Spring semester and already 14 students have signed up for the course.
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