PLAYING video games can give boys a physical workout that raises their blood pressure and heart rate and burns as many calories as brisk walking or cycling, US researchers say.
The discovery meant computer gaming - often said to contribute to the childhood obesity epidemic - should no longer be classified as a sedentary pastime, and might even help fight fat, said Arlette Perry, of the University of Miami's exercise and sports sciences department.
As Daniele, 11, played with a Microsoft Xbox at the Royal Easter Show yesterday, Ms Cullura was preparing for renewed pressure to let him join the ranks of home gamers. "If he hears they're not a bad thing there'll be trouble," she said.
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