The Power of Play
How Cardio Gaming on Blue Goji Bikes Benefits Kids' Bodies and Brains
Leah Lagos and Jaspal Ricky Singh TED-ED. June 2016
In today’s digital age, getting kids to engage in physical activity can be challenging. However, as Leah Lagos and Jaspal Ricky Singh highlight in their TED talk, the benefits of sports and exercise extend far beyond physical health—they also play a crucial role in cognitive development, emotional regulation, and overall well-being (1). At Blue Goji, we’ve taken these principles to heart by creating a fun and effective way to get kids moving through cardio gaming on our innovative bikes. This approach not only makes exercise enjoyable but also maximizes the benefits for both body and brain, making it an ideal solution for schools looking to promote health and wellness among their students.
The Importance of Exercise for Kids
Exercise is not just about staying fit; it’s a vital component of a child’s overall development. Regular physical activity has been proven to enhance cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and processing speed, which are essential for academic success (2). Moreover, exercise helps regulate emotions, reduce stress, and improve mood by boosting the production of endorphins and other feel-good neurotransmitters. By incorporating exercise into daily routines, schools can create an environment that supports both the physical and mental health of their students (3).
Cardio Gaming: Making Exercise Fun and Engaging
One of the key challenges in promoting exercise among kids is overcoming the perception that it’s a chore. That’s where Blue Goji’s cardio gaming bikes come in. By combining physical activity with immersive gaming experiences, our bikes transform exercise into an exciting adventure. Kids are not just pedaling—they’re navigating virtual worlds, completing challenges, and competing with friends, all while getting a full workout. This dual-task training not only keeps kids engaged but also stimulates neuroplasticity and neurogenesis, processes that are crucial for brain development.
The Dual Benefits of Cardio Gaming
When kids engage in cardio gaming, they’re reaping the benefits of both physical exercise and cognitive stimulation. The moderate-intensity cardio they experience on our bikes helps increase blood flow to the brain, delivering oxygen and nutrients that support brain health. At the same time, the cognitive challenges presented by the games enhance problem-solving skills, decision-making abilities, and reaction times (4). The result is a comprehensive workout for both the body and the brain, helping kids develop the skills they need to succeed both in and out of the classroom.
Creating a Healthy, Active Environment in Schools
At Blue Goji, we believe that schools play a critical role in shaping the habits and health of future generations. By incorporating cardio gaming into physical education programs, schools can provide students with a fun and effective way to stay active. Not only does this approach help combat the growing issue of childhood obesity, but it also fosters a positive attitude toward exercise that can last a lifetime. With our bikes, schools can create an environment where every child has the opportunity to experience the joy of movement and the benefits it brings to both their body and their brain.
Incorporating Blue Goji’s cardio gaming bikes into your school’s physical education program is a powerful way to engage students in exercise while supporting their cognitive and emotional development. By making fitness fun, we can inspire the next generation to embrace an active lifestyle, setting them up for success both in school and beyond. Let’s work together to unlock the power of play and give our kids the tools they need to thrive.
Looking to get Blue Goji bikes in your local schools? Contact our team at sales@bluegoji.com for more information.
References
(1) Lagos, L., & Singh, J. R. (2023, July). How playing sports benefits your body and your brain [Video]. TED Conferences. https://www.ted.com/talks/leah_lagos_and_jaspal_ricky_singh_how_playing_sports_benefits_your_body_and_your_brain/transcript?subtitle=en
(2) Tomporowski, P. D., Davis, C. L., Miller, P. H., & Naglieri, J. A. (2008). Exercise and children's intelligence, cognition, and academic achievement. Educational Psychology Review, 20(2), 111-131. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10648-007-9057-0
(3) Biddle, S. J., Asare, M., & Physical Activity and Mental Health Group. (2011). Physical activity and mental health in children and adolescents: a review of reviews. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 45(11), 886-895.
(4) Hillman, C. H., Erickson, K. I., & Kramer, A. F. (2008). Be smart, exercise your heart: Exercise effects on brain and cognition. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 9(1), 58-65. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn2298
