I have been using the gatorball - dodgeballs in an experiment with music, rhythm and reflexes. I get people around in a circle and have them place the balls between their knees and squeeze. I my the ball be a simulation of a bango drum.

I then have them repeat 4 count rhythms.

Then I tell them to keep repeating the rhythm and try to distract them (as we age, filtering out distractions becomes more difficult, if you practice games like this you will get better at it)

Then I have them copycat me as I strike the ball with the left, then the right, then both then I start making it harder, hitting the ball sometimes and not others with alternating hands or both hands.

The classes really seem to respond to this with great amusement. I have been doing this for a few weeks and am already seeing results in reflexes, multi-tasking and filtering out distractions.

They also really have fun, which is important to me.

As I was reading this, that was my thought... what you said at the end...

That does sound like it would be a lot of fun.

So is this more like a mental exercise game or do you get any physical activity out of it?

it is definitely a cardio exercise but a low intensity one. It may not be a good cardio exercise for people in great shape but for people who are just beginning it is a great workout to build up a little sweat.