New fitness game system for teens at Des Plaines parks

On Nov. 9, The Des Plaines Park District installed a new Positive Gaming iDance multiplayer exergaming system. The purchase of this new fitness game was made possible by a grant from the Office of Juvenile Justice. #147;For the past several years, the Teen Center has incorporated games that encourage children to leave the computer screen and get physical,#148; said Karyn Roth, recreation supervisor. The recently installed Makoto Arena II, the Dance Dance Revolution, the Jumpin#146; Jackpot, and the new iDance machine all use a combination of lights and sounds, which motivate participants to challenge the equipment and each other. #147;These games help to build cardiovascular endurance, balance, coordination, and help foster self-esteem,#148; said Roth.

#147;The new iDance fits perfectly with the park district#146;s core focus of bringing fun fitness activities to our youth,#148; said John Hecker, executive director for the Des Plaines Park District. #147;The iDance is unique, in that it allows for up to eight dancers of varying skill levels to participate side by side without compromising the development of any other players.#148;

The new iDANCE2 is applicable to all age groups and all ability levels. The video game software displays arrow charts on a large screen. These arrow charts scroll up from the bottom to the top of the screen. Once the arrows reach a marker at the top, the player steps on the matching arrow on the dance pad. The arrows follow the beat and rhythm of the music, as does the player. As more complex arrow combinations appear the player must be able to twist, turn, jump, and step in order to hit all the arrows.

The park district has eight dance pads and over 180 songs loaded into the system. Players begin at a basic level and are guided through the experience with positive and detailed feedback. The system is portable and is set up in the gym at the Administrative and Leisure Center when children are present for Teen Center Events, School Day Off Programs and special evenings, such as Fantastic Fridays.

The Des Plaines Teen Center, 2222 Birch Street, is open 2:30-7 p.m. Monday through Friday. For information about Des Plaines Park District facilities, events and programs, visit www.DPParks.org or call (847) 391-5700.

Ÿ Send Your news to nbrcalendar@dailyherald.com.