Recreational habits

I just finished a game of Wii Bowling and thought to myself - does this really qualify as exercise? I know it's much better than a traditional video or board game when it comes to physical activity involved, but is this going to make young people believe video games can keep them fit? What happened to nature, and really, truly, playing?

When I look outside I see peaceful and cheery sunshine coupled with a light and refreshing breeze. I know in my heart that the true day of enjoyable recreation is out there. Out in the elements, where we can run and laugh and play as much as our hearts desire. Whether it be on a boat in a river, or climbing the face of a daunting cliff, we belong outside. At least when it's time to have fun. No video game can ever replace the feeling of nirvana you get from being at peace with yourself and with nature.

It's very true and seriously startling, however, that we are the #1 country in the world. In what you ask? Is it economical growth, or educational excellence? Unfortunately, no. We are #1 in the world at being overweight, and that title has overwhelming consequences. These consequences affect for our health, our emotions, our economical interests, and thats just a very short list.

If, then, our lives and societal inertia are so intimately intertwined with our physical condition, how much can a few simple minutes of playing each day affect our world as a whole? In my humble opinion; signifigantly.

I know this isn't news, or even going to make you jump out of your comfy chair to run laps around your property (although you probably should =). The truth is, however, that we all need a refresher to the idea of what is possible out there. How much fun we can have outside. We have it so easy on a day to day basis that we can't always motivate ourselves enough to get up and play. We just can't see the immediate benefit. Not like the old days, oh no, when a man's greatness was measured by his physical prowess, strength, and stamina. My question is, though, what happened?

I remember hearing stories when I was younger from my parents and grandparents about the way of life in recent history. Back in the 50's. Every story seems to capture the more genuine spirit of man (as a species, not gender). They spoke of children riding thier bikes all through the neighborhood - without the worry and constraints of modern suburbia - and baseball games lighting up the locals faces every spring. There was not a single story that contained a gloomy or home-body theme. There was a sense of peace, pride, and an obviously gleeful outlook back then. Call me crazy, but I would bet you that being outside more often had a whole heck-of-a-lot to do with it.

I hope and pray that the physical condition of the average child doesn't deteriorate any further. While I respect the fact that many have realized the benfit of exercise, hence the creation of such things as the Wii, I do not currently believe the satus quo will change quickly enough to promote a healthier lifestyle. A video game with a moving controller is still a video game, and it is not a replacement for true outdoor exercise.

I want to know your opinions on this, and, more importantly, what it is that you do on a daily or weekly basis to get your play-time in. Please, comment and let's discuss.