The Gamers' Diet

Let's face it: gaming is not exactly a "body-friendly" hobby. Hours spent in the dark, all times of the day, sitting in a chair, hunched over a computer or TV screen is not good for a healthy body. Throw in the fact that many gamers just grab whatever is quick and convenient for sustenance...which, for some reason, always equals soda, pizza, or chocolate...and you have a strong case for what has become one of the most negative stereotypes of our hobby: the fat, lazy videogamer.

It doesn't have to be this way, however! Staying in shape and playing games all day do not have to be opposing objectives. Applying the same strategic thinking you would use in tackling a difficult end-of-level boss or leveling up your in-game avatar to your own body can keep you in fighting shape, in and out of the game! Here's six little tricks you can use to keep yourself fit while working out in-game:

1. Be Prepared! Don't listen to Illidan from World of Warcraft: The Burning Crusade! You ARE prepared! Stock your fridge with healthy foods and drinks before an all-night videogame bender. Don't wait until you're hungry, then lament the emptiness of your fridge while you call up Dominoes: be ready! If you know you've got a great weekend of videogaming ahead of you, prepare for it beforehand, and that will save you from a lot of "Well, I've guess I have no choice BUT to go to McDonald's..."

How do you prepare, you ask? Good question: