Is Wii Fit Good Exercise?

“Woman Loses 50 Pounds Playing Video Games!” It sounds like something you’d see on the cover of a tabloid in the grocery store checkout line, right under the story of the baby with three heads claiming Elvis as his father. Sure, it sounds too good to be true, but it is! You can lose weight, tone your muscles, and get more fit by playing video games. Not just any games, mind you – but the interactive, highly physical Nintendo Wii. The Wii Fit has even been endorsed by the American Heart Association.

If you aren’t familiar with the Wii, it’s the latest video game console sweeping the nation. The Wii Fit is a special bundle of games and accessories to turn your TV into a personal trainer, with on-screen workouts that include yoga, skiing, boxing, step aerobics, and more. Here’s what you need to know to get started working out with a Wii:

Equipment

There are now lots of add-on components and other game options like Wii Fit Plus, but at a minimum, you’ll need a television, Wii console, at least one handheld controller, and the Wii Fit bundle (including balance board and Wii Fit games).

Placement

All you have to do is google “Wii accident” to be treated to dozens of reports and videos of broken TVs, broken noses, and more from flying Wii remotes. Do yourself a favor and get your set-up right from the get-go. Make sure you have ample space to perform the required movements, and ALWAYS wear the wrist leash when using the handheld remote.

Set-up

When you first start playing the Wii Fit, you will be asked to create a “mii,” an on-screen profile complete with graphic that you can customize with hairstyle, height, etc. You’ll also be asked to go through a series of diagnostic tests to gauge your fitness level. It’s a great way to track your progress, so don’t skip this step!

Games

The basic Wii Fit software includes a number of activities in different fitness areas, from balance to yoga to cardio. Most can be played either against other people or individually. The system automatically starts you at lower levels, and you can “unlock” higher-level activities after a certain score or amount of times played. If you’re already in pretty good shape, many of these entry-level games may seem too easy, but use them as a chance to refine your technique.

Is Wii Fit good exercise?

Like any exercise routine, the Wii Fit requires you to put consistent effort into it before you can expect to see any results. The great thing about the Wii Fit is that it will nag you if you haven’t used it for a while! Commit to a regular exercise time, and you’ll soon find you’re having fun while getting in shape.

Get set up properly, learn the basic forms and techniques, and you’ll be a Wii Fit fanatic before you know it!