With the introduction of the Nintendo Wii, video gaming no longer conjures up images of a couch potato, but rather a gamer breaking a sweat while swinging the perfect backhand across a pixel, virtual tennis court. These games simulate sports and actually do count as genuine exercise. Playing virtual games like tennis or boxing can contribute to the minimum 30 minutes of exercise recommended each day.

As with any form of exercise, there are risks of injury. That is why in-house physiotherapist of Seasons Fitness made a list of top five tips to help gamers avoid injury and maximize the benefits from their Nintendo Wii.

Shoulders: Loosen up your shoulders before you start playing. Stand evenly on two feet and roll your shoulders backwards ten times.

Neck: Loosen your neck by trying to reach your left ear towards your left shoulder until you can feel a slight pull on the right side of your neck. Do the same on the other side. Then, move your chin to your chest until you feel a slight pull at the back of your neck. Follow by tipping your head backwards so you're looking at the ceiling. Hold each of these stretches for five seconds and repeat three times.

Back: To limber up your lower back, stand with your feet, hip-width apart, and circle your hips five times clockwise and five times counter-clockwise. Clench your buttocks ten times and pull in your stomach muscles ten times.

Wrists: Hold your left arm out in front of you and point your fingers towards the ceiling. With your right hand, pull your left hand backwards until you feel a stretch on the front of your wrist. Without rotating your arm, point your fingers downwards and with your right hand push your hand down until you feel the stretch in the back of your wrist. Then swap hands. Pay special attention to the hand you use most to play the Wii.

Digital dexterity: Fingers and thumbs can be used a lot with console controllers. Making sure they are ready for quick action is really important to ensure you're playing to your best ability and to reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries. Clench and open your fist ten times. Do this on both hands to increase circulation.

If you experience pain or discomfort as a result of any of these exercises, stop immediately. If you do get injured or are concerned about using the Nintendo Wii because of an existing injury, please consult a physiotherapist.