Every year, many people resolve to lose weight and improve their overall fitness, but few actually accomplish that goal. Work and family schedules can make hitting the gym difficult, and outdoor weather can frustrate those biking or jogging plans. Video games, however, can be a surprising way to get regular exercise and have fun while doing it. While most home game systems offer some exercise titles, the Wii has one of the most varied collections of workout games. Here are a few of the best Wii titles that will get you up and moving.
Just Dance - The Just Dance series is available on several platforms in addition to the Wii, and the games have been extremely popular over the last several years. The first game came out in 2009, but there have been many subsequent releases, including Just Dance 4 in late 2012. The game has players compete to match the movements of dancers performing routines to a wide variety of popular songs, and points are awarded for successful efforts to unlock new songs and routines. Just Dance is a great way to work up a sweat in a hurry; the dance routines elevate players' heart rates and work out arm and leg muscles. The latest game also provides a calorie counter and upgraded "Just Sweat" section for those who want to get serious about using the game for fitness.
Walk It Out - This 2010 title by Konami encourages players to walk longer and farther through a variety of goals and awards. Players walk around an island setting and earn points by keeping the beat of the accompanying music. The points can then be used to unlock buildings, features, and decorations on the island. A daily rainbow hunt also encourages players to keep going just a little longer in order to find the last colored spheres. Calorie and distance feedback helps players keep track of their workout goals. This is a great starter game for adults looking to add some light, regular exercise to their routines, although younger players might eventually tire of the music and repetition.
Wii Fit and Wii Fit Plus - Balance games, yoga, aerobic exercises, and other activities get players moving with these quintessential Wii titles. The Wii balance board plays an integral part in most activities. Players can create customized workouts and keep track of their weight loss over time, although the game's settings for "ideal weight" seem to be a little low for adult men. The Wii Fit games include many lower intensity activities that can get a couch potato started on the path to physical fitness, although those looking for high level workouts might prefer the more strenuous dance titles instead.
Other exercise titles for the Wii include Gold's Gym Dance Workout, Zumba Fitness, The Hip Hop Dance Experience, Gold's Gym Cardio Workout, and Wii Sports Resort. A number of other workout titles are also available for the Wii. The important thing is to find a game that appeals to you and then make it part of your daily routine. If there's already a Wii in your house, pick up one of these titles and get going!
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