Wii-lovers have found a new game associated with the program: injury. From doctors to children, many have inflicted injury upon themselves by playing the physical video game.

 Ailments like “Wii Shoulder” and “Wii Knee” have cropped-up, falling under the umbrella of the new nerve – disorder “Nintendinitis.”

 Programs like Wii Fit are great in that they get gamers off their couches and actively involved with the game. The new concept took hold; as The New York Times article “More Wii Warriors Are Playing Hurt” reported Wii sold more than 10 million of the game systems in the United States in 2008, including a record 2.1 million in December. The complementary Wii Fit exercise program has been nearly as popular, with more than 6.5 million sold since its introduction last May.

 Upon interviewing several orthopedists and sports medicine practitioners, the article citied rising numbers of injuries resulting from the game. Symptoms of strains and swelling have been reported from use and overuse of Wii.

A strong core is synonymous with a strong athlete. 

The core can be thought of as the link between the upper half of your body with the lower half. In order to ensure both sections operate smoothly and in-balance, a strong core is necessary to develop. The majority of movements in sports, like running, throwing a ball, pivoting for a tennis shot, or jumping for a jump-shot, all require a powerful core for success. 

Many athletes believe training at higher altitudes can increase their fitness level, oxygen intake, and overall performance.

Reasons altitude training may be beneficial for athletes include the following:

Oxygen efficiency. Higher altitudes boast lower oxygen levels. This results in the body being forced to improve its ability to provide oxygen to the muscles.

Acid disposal. Acid buildup has a negative effect on athletes’ performance. Adjusting to higher altitudes forces the body to more efficiently deal with excess acid waste.

With an estimated 40 to 400 trainer certification programs, it’s hard to differentiate a qualified trainer than one simply with a piece of paper stating they are “certified.”

Good trainers are able to assess your overall health and fitness level, and formulate an appropriate exercise regimen to keep you motivated and in-shape. Bad trainers may have preset exercise plans for all their clients, or keep you doing the same regimen consistently, causing a plateau in your fitness level.

Look for trainers certified in programs with accreditation, as these certification programs have more sound standards.