'Wii Fit' to be previewed at Science Museum

London's Science Museum is to preview Nintendo's forthcoming Wii Fit this Wednesday as it aims to reveal whether video games can aid weight loss.

The museum, with the help of epidemiologist Andy Jones from the University of East Anglia, plans to discover if modern, interactive technology can increase fitness levels.

A spokesman from the museum said: "Visitors will have the opportunity to try out Wii Fit for themselves and watch as its effectiveness is put to the test in a series of live tests. Human guinea pigs will be put through their paces exercising on a treadmill, testing out Wii Fit and playing a more sedentary game, whilst measurements of their heart rate and oxygen consumption are taken to calculate how much energy is burnt.

"Throughout the evening sport scientists, physiologists and games experts will be on hand to engage and discuss whether gaming can promote a healthy lifestyle."

The Nintendo-sponsored Play Away the Calories event, which is offering free admission, begins at 7pm.

Wii Fit is scheduled for a UK release on April 25.