To play Dance Dance Revolution, players stand on a provided dance platform or stage and tap colored arrows laid out in a cross with their feet using musical and visual cues. Players receieve a score at the conclusion of a song based on how well they timed their dance moves and steps to the patterns presented to them. If they receive a passing score, they are allowed to choose another song to dance to.
Schools are shifting the focus of physical education by incorporating Dance Dance Revolution into P.E. classes. Chad Fenwick, who oversees physical education for the Los Angeles Unified School District, says "Traditionally, physical education was about team sports and was very skills oriented. What you’re seeing is a move toward activities where you don’t need to be so great at catching and throwing and things like that, so we can appeal to a wider range of kids.”
Kids playing Dance Dance Revolution tend to burn a lot of calories as they jump around a dance mat, following colored arrows on a screen. Some people have claimed to have lost a few pounds playing Dance Dance Revolution, as well as picked up a few new dance moves.
Source: Seth, Schiesel, P.E. Classes Turn to Video Game That Works Legs. The New York Times, 30 Apr 2007.
