Tugg: A Social, Mobile Game to Fight Childhood Obesity
Wouldn’t it be cool if we could create a mobile game to fight childhood obesity?
In the New Media Institute at the University of Georgia, we spent the Spring of 2010 tackling just that question. Our game, Tugg, utilizes a blend of mobile heart monitoring technology and social gaming to pit teams of kids against each other in virtual games of tug-o-war. The only way for kids to win is by literally raising their heart rate, thereby reducing the risk for and effects of childhood obesity in a fun, competitive social game.
Check out the video we made to explain why this project is important, and to introduce the concept of a health-oriented, social game called Tugg
I'm a new dad living in Atlanta, Georgia. I try my best to creatively leverage new media technology, solve complex problems, and generally create value. I also sing and make music.
Kiley…First this website is completely and utterly awesome! And yes, I do mean I am in awe of everything about what this and your professional path has become. Second, this project (tugg) might be the best part about it in my opinion. This is an idea that could change the course of history, man. This needs to happen! And I would be proud, honored, and happy to help out in any way as a future health promotion professional. Miss ya, brother, and I can’t wait to catch up with you this weekend.
-Mike
Thanks Mike! We built the initial app (a beta version) and used hand-held heart rate monitors to track the user’s BPM. The game responded to the faster / slower heart rate and worked! We all graduated and moved on, but I still have the heart rate monitor at home!
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Cheers
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