tel·e·vi·sion (těl’ə-vĭzh’ən) n.

  1. The transmission of dynamic or sometimes static images, generally with accompanying sound, via electric or electromagnetic signals.
  2. An electronic apparatus that receives such signals, reproducing the images on a screen, and typically reproducing accompanying sound signals on speakers.
  3. The visual and audio content of such signals.
  4. The industry of producing and broadcasting television programs.

(from television. (n.d.). The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition. Retrieved August 24, 2008, from Dictionary.com website: http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/television)

So, by definition, “television” or “TV” (short) can be anything device or means that transmit multimedia; or it can refer to the industry that produces this kind of media.

Ever since the Internet became a popular phenomenon, there is evidence that young people are watching TV less and would spend more time on the Internet instead. However, both activities have one common thing: you either sit still in front of the TV, or you sit still in front of the computer. There are many alternatives to watching TV. Some healthy alternatives include going outdoors and do some physical activity. Some less-healthy alternatives to TV are to encourage people to watch on-demand TV through the Internet.

TV vs Exercises

In the older days (say 10 years ago), video shops actually let people rent out video tapes. With video shops nowadays, you can hardly find a video tape in it! It’s now mostly DVD’s and game discs. TV programs can be rented out on DVD’s, and some can be easily accessible through the Internet.

I really don’t know which is better… As obesity is becoming more of a problem in today’s society, I see that “real” alternatives to TV would be to get people moving and stop sitting still. Australia is the second most obese countries in the world (USA ranks 1st), and Queensland is the most obese state in Australia :S This morning I heard from the radio that the government will have funds for reducing obesity. I wonder how effective that will be…

Healthy alternatives to TV:
- Trash Your TV! Your complete guide to a TV-free lifestyle (here)
- 101 TV-free alternatives (here)
The sites above have many fun activity suggestions and ideas.

Less-healthy alternatives to TV:
- 33 Ways to watch free TV online (here)
- Top TVLinks Alternatives (here)
The sites above provide lists to many web sites that provide free TV online…