For a lot of us the phrase "go outside and play" was not only a rite of childhood, it was a direct command from our parents to get out of the way. In my generation TV was the evil brain thief that was going to turn our minds and bodies into pudding. These days it's the computer and the video games that are keeping our children out of the fresh air and sunshine.

LSU's Pennington Biomedical Research Center is looking into a way that kids' love of video games could actually get them moving physically. The facility is launching a six month study to see if active video games, games that require the player to physically move to play, can help in the fight against childhood obesity.

We give them a gaming bundle and video games. We also give them access to a fitness coach. So, they’ll play these games in the home and we want to see, will these games help to increase their physical activity and even help them lose weight.

Dr. Amanda Staiano,  Pennington Assistant Professor, told the Louisiana Radio Network that the Game Squad Project will focus on boys and girls who are overweight and between the ages of 10 and 12.

Dr. Staiano is hopeful that the study will show that the interest in the video game combined with the physical nature of playing the video game will yield positive results.

There are sports games, dance games, all sorts of games and these games can be played with parents, grandparents and siblings, so it’s really a whole family activity.

If you'd like to be a part of the study call (225) 763-3000. This is the first step you'll need to take to see if your child meets the criteria that researchers are looking for.

More From Gator 99.5