While fitness-focused video games have been around since the inception of the popular arcade classic "Dance Dance Revolution," the marketing of video games as a fitness tool got a boost with the release of the Nintendo Wii console. Instead of heading to the gym or purchasing a treadmill, you can now burn away calories from the comfort of your own living room.
"Wii Fit" and "Wii Fit Plus"
"Wii Fit" and the "Wii Fit" balance board transformed video games from a couch potato's activity to a form of exercise. The original game offers a range of strength exercises, yoga poses and aerobic activities, along with the ability to track your fitness goals. The newer version added several new fitness games, including skateboarding and juggling, as well as new yoga poses and strength moves. While exercising with "Wii Fit" is better than no exercise at all, a study sponsored by the American Council on Exercise found that the game provides a very light workout and should be a supplement to other forms of exercise.
EA Sports Active
EA Sports Active, available for the Playstation 3, Wii and Xbox 360, requires the use of a leg-strap tracking device and resistance band to perform over 25 sports drills and exercises. Along with performance tracking, the game includes a virtual personal trainer to offer instructions, critique and encouragement throughout your workout session. If you want to take it one step further, the game lets you track your diet with a customizable food journal.
Jillian Michaels' Fitness Ultimatum 2009
Get more value from your Wii balance board with "Jillian Michaels' Fitness Ultimatum 2009." This Wii game, which is based on the hit reality-TV show "The Biggest Loser," walks you through warm-ups, workouts and cool downs alongside a virtual avatar of host Jillian Michaels. The game also provides diet and exercise tips.
My Fitness/My Weightloss Coach
"My Fitness Coach" and "My Weightloss Coach," available on the Wii and Nintendo DS respectively, provide two very different exercise game experiences. The Wii game, like "Wii Fit," offers 500 strength-training, yoga and aerobic exercises. You'll be guided through each move by Maya, your virtual trainer. The DS game includes a clip-on pedometer to track your steps as you walk or run. As you set and accomplish goals, you can unlock new games and rewards.
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