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Serve it up, knock ‘em down, or go ten rounds. All workouts in the real world – now, in the virtual world.

The Nintendo Wii video game system is leading a new trend called “exergaming.” In many games players are forced to get up and get active - a concept which some people believe can lead to weight loss.

“They get physical. I mean, their arms are flailing. They’re jumping up and down when they get a point, so I think, I think so.”

“I agree, I think the Wii can really make you work hard.”

How do these virtual sports stack up against the real ones?

A popular online study found it depends on what sports you play. Fifteen minutes of bowling on the Wii burns about 77 calories. In the real world – 63 calories

• Wii tennis – 92 calories

• Real tennis – 162

• And actual boxing knocks out virtual boxing – 189 to 125

So while the Wii can make you work up a sweat, it doesn’t pack a punch like the real deal.

Exergaming is showing promise, especially among children. Researchers from Liverpool John Moore’s University found regular play could help children lose or keep off as much as 27 pounds a year.

For DocShopTV, I’m Angelique Frame.