xrkLab

School of Physical Education
& Exercise Science

The XRKade Research Laboratory

The XRKade Research Laboratory is located within the School of Physical Education and Exercise Science at the University of South Florida. The laboratory is an 1800 sq. ft. teaching and research facility established to investigate and promote the use of active gaming technologies. This movement is known as interactive fitness, exergaming, or active gaming—technology-driven screen based games that require the participant to use his/her body to play that game. Active gaming is increasingly being used in school systems, YMCA’s, recreational centers, and private fitness clubs to help children of all ages increase levels of daily physical activity. In addition to our campus lab we are pleased to announce the 2009 opening of a school based lab at Witter Elementary School in the Hillsborough County Public School System.

Specific goals of the lab are to (1) establish a model exergaming center where beginning and experienced teachers can explore the pedagogical strategies and contemporary curriculums used in an exergaming environment; and (2) to conduct research and investigate the potential of exergaming as a method of increasing children’s fitness levels and decreasing childhood obesity.