The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended that all American adults get at least 150 minutes of exercise each week. For children, this recommendation is expanded to an hour of exercise every day. Reaching these goals can be difficult for both children and adults alike. Luckily, the introduction of interactive technology through video game systems like the Nintendo Wii has allowed fitness and video games to combine in order to make working out more enjoyable. Some of these Wii fitness titles stand out as the best among the rest based on features and popularity.
Wii Fit
One of the first fitness titles to launch on the Wii gaming system, Wii Fit features exercises groups including aerobic exercises, stretching, strength training and balance activities. The Wii Fit program can be used on it's own or with an accompanying Wii Fit board which increases the interaction abilities of the game. Wii fit can be used for the whole family with programs fitting all ages ranging from younger children all the way to the elderly. Wii Fit Plus even also allows you to track the fitness of your dog, bringing pets into the action.
EA Sports Active
EA Sports Active acts as a personal trainer as well as provides a wide list of strength training, aerobic, and stretching activities that come in both traditional exercise form and games. The package comes with a special Wii nunchuck holder which can be attached to your leg. This allows the game to track movements such as squats or running in place, which is then translated on the screen with your character moving in sync with your actions. EA Sports active also has an expansion pack for more exercises, as well a sequel called Sports Active 2.
The Biggest Loser
The Biggest Loser game is a spin-off of the hit NBC television show by the same name. This Wii game focuses on workouts designed and lead by both physical trainers Bob Harper and Jillian Michaels, along with encouragement from the host of the show Allison Sweeney, as well as the voices of 70 former contestants of the game show. This game provides aerobic, strength training and stretching exercises that can be designed into an individual routine for your body size and weight loss goals.
Gold's Gym Cardio Workout
The Gold's Gym Cardio Workout game for the Wii focuses more on cardio exercise. Cardio exercises provide a greater calorie burning workout with activities and games ranging from jumping rope and running to a boxing simulator. The Gold's Gym Cardio Workout can also be combined with the Wii balance board for more interactivity. The Gold's Gym brand with Ubisoft has also released a second cardio workout game which can also be used as part of your fitness routine called Gold's Gym Dance Workout.
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