Introduction To Video Games Fitness – Can You Get Fit Fast By Playing Video Games?

If you had asked the question, “Can you get fit fast playing video games?” 10 years ago, the chances are that you would have either gotten laughed at or gotten some very strange looks.

The stereotypical image of a “gamer” is someone who doesn’t get much exercise, doesn’t eat a very good diet, doesn’t get out much and stays up long into the night playing video games. The stereotypical image of a “fit person” is the exact opposite and is someone who exercises regularly, watches exactly what they eat, spends a lot of time walking and running outside and sticks to a regular bedtime.

In addition to this, the actual act of playing video games 10 years ago wasn’t physically demanding. You’d sit with a pad in your hand (or perhaps a light gun or steering wheel for some games) and the closest you’d come to exercising would be getting a little over excited when playing the games and wildly throwing your arms around. Not exactly a substitute for a long run or a grueling session at the gym.

However, a lot’s changed in the last 10 years and when it comes to video games, one particular change has radically altered the way video games are played – Motion-Sensing Technology.

In November 2006, Nintendo launched the Wii – the first home video games console to use motion-sensing technology. With this launch, Nintendo changed the face of video gaming forever.

Instead of being seen as a predominantly male pastime which involved little-to-no activity, video gaming became seen as a pastime that could be enjoyed by people of all ages and genders as part of a group. More importantly, it became seen as an active pastime where people would jump around and use their entire body to play video games. Suddenly, the link between fitness and video games was a lot closer.

In 2007 (Japan) and 2008 (Australasia, Europe and North America), Nintendo solidified this link by releasing Wii Fit – the first fitness video game to achieve massive, mainstream success.

Since the release of Wii Fit, playing video games to get fit has become increasingly possible. In 2010, Sony and Microsoft released their own Motion-Sensing technology devices – the PlayStation Move and the Kinect, and there are now a wide range of fitness games and accessories available on all three major consoles.

In this special report, I will be taking a deeper look at how you can get fit with video games examining the three major motion-sensing platforms in detail, providing you with the plus points and drawbacks of each platform, discussing the fitness accessories, bundles and games that are available on each platform and then finally concluding with which platform is right for you.

If you already own one of the three major video games consoles, you can use this special report to learn about all the fitness options that are available to you on that specific console. If you don’t currently own a video games console, you can use this guide to aid your buying decision and choose the best console for your lifestyle and fitness goals.

Video Games Fitness From Wii

1. Wii Overview

The Wii was the first of the three major motion-sensing platforms to be released. It was originally launched in North and South America on November 19, 2006 and then launched shortly after in Japan on December 2, 2006, Australasia on December 7, 2006 and Europe on December 8, 2006. It was launched across the rest of the world between December 2006 and December 2008.

In October 2011, Nintendo released the Wii Family Edition – a redesigned model which sits horizontally instead of vertically and cannot play Nintendo GameCube games (unlike the original Wii which is compatible with these games). It was launched in North America on October 23, 2011 and in Europe on November 4, 2011 but has not been released in Japan. Despite being a revised model, both the versions of the Wii are still available in retail stores and sold alongside each other.

Most fitness games on the Wii are controlled using the Wii Remote (which you hold in your right hand) and a Nunchuk (which you hold in your left hand). However, Wii Fit uses the Wii Balance Board and you can also purchase separate fitness accessory kits which help you get a more intense workout as you play.

2. Wii Plus Points

1) Largest Library Of Video Fitness Games: Since the Wii has been on the market for almost six years, it has had a significant four year head start over its rivals. This shows in the range of fitness games that are available for the console. Whether you are a fan of dancing, sports training, walking or Zumba, there’ll be a game to suit your needs on the Wii.

2) Lowest Cost Base Unit: If you don’t currently own a video game console, the Wii is by far the cheapest way to get started with fitness video gaming. You can currently pick up a Wii with Wii Sports and Wii Sports Resort as well as a Wii Remote Plus controller and a Nunchuk controller for around $175.

3) Established Presence In Homes: Since the Wii has had a four year head start on its rivals, it’s got a much more established presence in homes. If your friends have a video game console, the chances are they have a Wii. If you want to share workout scores and tips with people you know, the Wii is the best console to do it.

3. Wii Drawbacks

1) Worst Graphics: Although being the first to the market has a number of advantages, graphics are not one of them. Both the PlayStation 3 and the Xbox 360 have far superior graphics to the Wii and also offer HD support. The Wii has the most basic graphics of all three and no HD support.

2) Worst Motion Detection: Another drawback of the Wii is that it has the worst motion detection of all three major motion-sensing platforms. With a regular Wii Remote, the motion detection is quite inaccurate and your actual movements will often not be reflected very well on the screen. Getting a Wii Remote Plus improves the accuracy considerably but, even with this addition, the PlayStation Move and Kinect beat the Wii when it comes to accurate motion detection.

4. Wii Bundles to Get You Started

There is only one bundle worth considering when it comes to getting fit on the Wii – the Wii with Wii Sports Resort Bundle.

1) Wii with Wii Sports Resort Bundle: The Wii with Wii Sports Resort Bundle comes with everything you need to start getting fit on the Wii. You get a Wii console, a Wii Remote Plus controller, a Nunchuk controller and a two top sports games – Wii Sports and Wii Sports Resort. With this bundle you can have hours of fun playing your favorite sport and burn a good number of calories while you do it. It costs around $175.

5. Wii Fitness Games to Get You Started

As discussed above, the Wii has the largest catalogue of fitness games on the market and you should easily be able to find one that you enjoy playing. However, if you’re not sure where to start, the list below highlights 10 of the best:

1) ExerBeat: Exerbeat is a rhythm-based fitness game that suits people of all ages. It comes loaded with 155 exercises which make working out easy and fun. Exercise options include aerobics, boxercise, hip-hop, karate, Latin dance, Pilates, stretching and yoga. The game also displays a number of important fitness statistics as you play, including METs (metabolic equivalent of the workout) and number of calories burned.

2) Gold’s Gym Dance Workout: Gold’s Gym Dance Workout combines dance and exercise to give you an intense workout. It features a range of Latin dance styles (including Cumbia, Meringue, Reggaeton, Samba and Salsa), over 30 different songs and comes with a range of exciting mini-games (including kangaroo boxing, karate, rodeo bull riding, rowing and sword fighting). It can also be integrated with the Wii Balance Board and comes with a complementary 7-day Gold’s Gym membership.

3) Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games: Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games is a fun-filled game that allows you to compete with friends and family at various sports events, while getting a little exercise in the process. You can play as your favorite character from either the Mario or Sonic universe and compete against the background of real London city venues. The events include 100 meter sprint, aquatics, badminton, canoeing, soccer, showjumping and table tennis.

4) Nickelodeon Fit: Nickelodeon Fit is a great way to give your kids an early introduction into the world of fitness. It features popular Nickelodeon characters such as Dora, Diego, Kai-lan and the Backyardigans. Additionally, it’s packed with 30 scientifically developed exercises which target the fitness areas that are important for healthy physical development in children. The exercises target a range of areas including balance, cardio, coordination, motor skills, muscle development and strength.

5) The Biggest Loser Challenge: The Biggest Loser Challenge is an excellent video fitness game for fans of the TV show. It features the cast and trainers from the show, has 125 different exercises you can try and comes with cooperative play options and Wii Balance Board support. The exercises include boxing, cardio, circuit training, core exercises and gym exercises.

6) Walk It Out: Walk It Out is an excellent choice for those who prefer this gentler, less intense form of exercise. It allows you to explore an entertaining game world while walking to the rhythm of the in-game soundtrack and participating in a series of mini-games. The soundtrack features over 120 different songs, including “Boom Boom Pow” by the Black Eyed Peas, “How Do You Sleep?” by Jesse McCartney and “La La Land” by Demi Lovato.

7) Wii Fit Plus with Balance Board: Wii Fit Plus is one of the most popular fitness video games ever released and gives you a full workout by getting you to perform a range of aerobic, balance, strength and yoga exercises. It comes with a specially designed Wii Balance Board that can be used in conjunction with the game.

8) Wii Sports: Wii Sports contains a number of fun sports games that you can play on your own or with friends and family. The games include baseball, bowling, boxing, golf and tennis. You play the game using a personalized Mii character which gains experience and skill as you progress.

9) Wii Sports Resort With Wii Motion Plus: Wii Sports Resort expands on the original Wii Sports and allows you to enjoy air sports, archery, basketball, bowling, canoeing, cycling, Frisbee, golf, power cruising, swordplay, table tennis and wakeboarding within the comfort of your own home. It comes with Wii Motion Plus which enhances the accuracy and adds enjoyment to the game.

10) Zumba Fitness 2: Zumba Fitness 2 allows you to experience the fun dance environment of Zumba without ever going to a class. It incorporates 20 different dance styles (including Axe, Bellydance, Cumbia, Latin, Indian, Merengue, Passodoble, Pop and Samba), five different game modes plus 32 routines and music tracks by artists such as Nicole Scherzinger and Pitbull. It also comes packaged with a Zumba Fitness belt which holds the Wii Remote as you dance away.

6. Wii Fitness Accessories to Enhance Your Workout

If you want to take your fitness video game training to the next level there are a number of specially designed Wii fitness accessories available which can help give you an even better workout as you play. The list below outlines five of the best:

1) Aerobic Step Platform for Wii Fit: The Aerobic Step Platform for Wii Fit is an excellent accessory that attaches to the bottom of your Wii Balance Board and raises the board to a total height of four inches. It can support up to 350lbs of weight and comes with rubber pegs to keep it secure on any surface.

2) CTA Digital Wii Knockout Boxing Gloves: The CTA Digital Wii Knockout Boxing Gloves allow you to scrap your way through boxing games with lifelike motions. Instead of waving the Wii Remote and Nunchuk about, you clip the Wii Remote to the back of the right glove and the Nunchuk to the sleeve inside the palm of the left glove and then punch away.

3) CTA Digital Wii Push-Up Bar: The CTA Digital Wii Push-Up Bar attaches securely to the top of the Wii Fit Balance Board and allows you to perform deeper push-ups. It can be used to perform three different types of push-up and is compatible with a range of fitness games including Jillian Fitness Ultimatum, U Fitness, Wii Fit and Wii Fit Plus.

4) Dumbbell Set For Wii: The Dumbbell Set For Wii allows you to add some resistance to your video game workouts. Each dumbbell weighs 1.7lb and clips on easily to the Wii Remote and Nunchuk. The dumbbells can be used with a selection of fitness games including EA Sports Active, Gold’s Gym Cardio, Jillian Fitness Ultimatum and Wii Fit.

5) Everlast Resistance Tubing: The Everlast Resistance Tubing is a brilliant way to add resistance to your Wii Remote and Nunchuk. Simply hook the controllers in and then perform the standard exercises from your favorite fitness game with extra resistance. You can even detach them from the Wii Remote and Nunchuk and use them as standalone resistance bands.

Video Games Fitness From PlayStation Move

1. PlayStation Move Overview

The PlayStation Move was released four years after the Wii. It was originally launched in Europe (minus the United Kingdom) and Asia on September 15, 2010 before being launched in Australasia on September 16, 2010, the United Kingdom and North and South America on September 17, 2010 and Japan on October 21, 2010.

Unlike the Wii, the PlayStation Move is not an entire console – it’s an accessory for the existing PlayStation 3 console. It consists of the PlayStation Eye camera and the PlayStation Move Motion controller which both attach to the PlayStation 3 console.

Most video fitness games on the PlayStation Move are controlled by the PlayStation Move Motion controller, although some games also take advantage of the PlayStation Move Navigation controller which is similar to the Wii’s Nunchuk. Additionally, certain games are compatible with separate fitness accessory kits which can be used to help you get a better workout when playing.

2. PlayStation Move Plus Points

1) Lowest Cost Accessory Unit: While the Wii is the cheapest way to get started from scratch with fitness video games, if you already own a PlayStation 3, the PlayStation Move is by far the cheapest fitness video gaming option. You can pick up the PlayStation Move Starter Bundle for around $80 which is over half the price of a Wii.

2) High Quality Motion Detection: If accuracy is what you are after in your fitness video games, the PlayStation Move is the best choice for you. It is the most accurate of the three motion-sensing platforms by far and will perfectly replicate your exercises on screen.

3) Advanced Controls: Another great feature of the PlayStation Move is that it has lots of functions in the controller. The Wii has a very limited controller and the Kinect has no controller at all which means a lot of their games are quite simple. The PlayStation Move Motion controller is a lot more advanced and, as a result, you can enjoy more advanced fitness games on this platform.

3. PlayStation Move Drawbacks

1) Smallest Library Of Fitness Games: If you’re expecting lots of variety in your fitness video games, the PlayStation Move may not be the best console for you. While more fitness video games are getting released for it in the future, at the time of writing there are very few available and the vast majority are dance-related. If you get bored with your workouts easily and are planning to try new fitness games quite regularly, you are probably best going for a Wii or Kinect.

2) Longest To Set Up: Another negative of the PlayStation Move is that setting it up can be a chore. To set up the Wii you just get the motion sensor in place, calibrate the controller and you’re good to go. With the Kinect it’s even easier as there are no controllers to calibrate. However, with the PlayStation move you have to get the PlayStation Eye Camera in place, set up the controllers and then put the proper software into your PlayStation 3. If you’re using it every day to workout, this can add up to a lot of wasted time.

what the game requires of the player motor skills levels Video games fitness. There are several methods of classifying video game s.…

4. PlayStation Move Bundles to Get You Started

There are two main sporting bundles for you to consider when it comes to the PlayStation Move – the PlayStation Move Starter Bundle and the PlayStation 3 – 320 GB System/PlayStation Move Bundle.

1) PlayStation Move Starter Bundle: If you already own a PlayStation 3 console, the PlayStation Move Starter Bundle is a top choice. The bundle includes a PlayStation Move Motion controller, the PlayStation Eye camera and the excellent sports compilation game – Sports Champions. Once you have this bundle, you simply hook it up to your existing PlayStation 3, select your favorite sport and start exercising. It costs around $80.

2) PlayStation 3 – 320 GB System/PlayStation Move Bundle: If you don’t have a PlayStation 3 console, this is the bundle for you. It contains a 320GB PlayStation 3 console, a DualShock 3 wireless controller, a PlayStation Move Motion controller, a PlayStation Eye Camera and a copy of the PlayStation Move game – Sports Champions. This massive bundle gives you everything you need to start getting active with the PlayStation Move. It costs around $350.

5. PlayStation Move Video Fitness Games to Get You Started

Although the PlayStation Move has very few fitness games available, there are some good ones if you look hard enough. The list below highlights 10 of the very best:

1) EA Sports Active 2: EA Sports Active is an interactive fitness game that combines exercise, lifestyle and nutrition to maximize your overall health. It has a range of routines that target your upper body and lower body. In addition to this, it contains a selection of cardio workouts and a 30 day challenge which builds agility, coordination and muscle endurance. You can also track your heart rate on the screen with the EA Sports Active Heart Rate Monitor which comes bundled with the game.

2) Everybody Dance: Everybody Dance is a high-energy dance workout game which contains 40 chart topping tunes including Duck Sauce’s “Barbra Streisand”, LMFAO’s “Party Rock Anthem” and Usher’s “OMG”. It has three difficulty levels which each feature unique routines from world renowned dance choreographers. In addition to this, it comes loaded with 40 different songs and allows you to play with up to 20 friends in “party mode”.

3) Fit In Six: Fit In Six is a music based workout game which focuses on the six elements of fitness; balance, cardio, core strength, flexibility, lower body strength and upper body strength. It helps you get a total body workout with synchronized animations, music and speech. Additionally, all the exercises are fully customizable and come with clear verbal and visual instructions. The game also lets you track a number of useful statistics, including body strength, coordination, flexibility and stamina.

4) Just Dance 3: Just Dance 3 is the third installment in this hugely popular dance series. It comes loaded with over 45 tracks including Cee Lo Green’s “Forget You”, Kiss’s “I Was Made For Loving’ You” and Katy Perry’s “California Gurls” and can be played solo or with friends and family. It comes with a range of different dance options, including the fitness-focused “Just Sweat More” which provides you with an advanced, cardio training program.

5) Just Dance Kids 2: Just Dance Kids 2 is the second installment in the kids’ version of the popular franchise and a great way to gently introduce your young ones to the world of fitness. It contains over 40 well-known kids’ songs, including “Just The Way You Are” by Bruno Mars, “Love Me” by Justin Bieber and “Whip My Hair” by Willow Smith. It also includes songs from popular kids’ movies and TV shows and songs for younger kids such as “Heads, Shoulders, Knees and Toes”.

6) Michael Jackson: The Experience: Michael Jackson: The Experience is a perfect game for fitness fanatics who admire Michael Jackson. It includes a long list of his greatest hits, including “Beat It”, “Billie Jean” and “Don’t Stop Till You Get Enough” and helps you learn his signature, awe-inspiring dance moves as you groove away. The game also comes with full multiplayer support so you and up to six of your friends can enjoy a Michael Jackson inspired dance party.

7) MLB 12 The Show: MLB 12 The Show is an excellent choice for baseball fans. It allows you to replicate every swing, pitch and catch as you play and is one of the few sports games on the market to feature full PlayStation Move support. It also comes with free online play, allowing you to hone your baseball skills against opponents anywhere in the world.

8) Sports Champion: Sports Champion is the PlayStation Move’s answer to Wii Sports and comes with a selection of six different sports; archery, beach volleyball, bocce, disc golf, gladiator duel and table tennis. You can use it to workout alone or alternatively compete against your friends and family. The game also allows you to track all your stats and display how good you are with an online leader board system.

9) The Fight: Lights Out: The Fight: Lights Out allows you to scrap your way into shape without the risk of injury. You can start off with the basic moves and then up the intensity and go all out with more advanced fighting techniques as you get used to the game. The game features 12 underground fighting venues which are filled with a range of opponents and boss characters that each have their own specific fighting style.

10) Zumba Fitness: Zumba Fitness brings the fun feeling of a Zumba class right into your living room. It contains 30 heart-pounding Zumba routines and a range of Zumba-inspired tunes. Additionally, the game is packaged with a Zumba Fitness belt which holds your PlayStation Move Motion controller as you shake and groove to the beat. Zumba Fitness also supports online cooperative play so you can team up with others and Zumba with people from around the globe.

6. PlayStation Move Fitness Accessories to Enhance Your Workout

Like the Wii, the PlayStation Move has a number of specific fitness accessories which can be used to maximize your video game workouts. The list below outlines five of the most effective:

1) CTA Digital PS3 Move Baseball Bat: The CTA Digital PS3 Move Baseball Bat allows you to fully immerse yourself in baseball games such as MLB 12 The Show. You simply insert the PlayStation Move Motion controller into the slot and start slugging away. The bat comes with a secure wrist strap and gives you full access to all the buttons on the PlayStation Move Motion controller.

2) PlayStation Move 14 In 1 Pack: The PlayStation Move 14 In 1 Pack does exactly what it says on the tin and provides you with 14 separate attachments that can be used to enhance your Sports Champion experience. The attachments include two golf attachments, two sword attachments, two handles for the PlayStation Move Motion controllers, two pistol attachments, two table tennis attachments, two wrist straps, one archery attachment and one Frisbee attachment.

3) PlayStation Move Premium Golf Club: The PlayStation Move Premium Golf Club is the perfect accessory for keen golfers who want to hone their skills at home. It looks and feels just like an actual golf club and is compatible with all the PlayStation Move golf games including John Daly’s ProStroke Golf and Tiger Woods PGA Tour.

4) PlayStation Move Premium Tennis Racquet: The PlayStation Move Premium Tennis Racquet is a great way to replicate the feeling of the tennis court in your living room. It looks and feels like a proper tennis racquet and is compatible with a range of PlayStation move tennis games including Grand Slam Tennis, Racquet Sports and Virtua Tennis.

5) Ultimate Boxing Gloves For PlayStation Move: The Ultimate Boxing Gloves For PlayStation Move allows you to jab, punch and swing without having to worry about holding the PlayStation Move Motion controllers in your hands. The gloves come fitted with Velcro pouches which can be used to store the PlayStation Move Motion controllers and allow you to focus fully on your boxing.

Video Games Fitness Products From Kinect

1. Kinect Overview

The Kinect was released shortly after the PlayStation Move. It was first launched in North America on November 4, 2010 before being launched in Europe on November 10, 2010, South America on November 14, 2010, Australasia and Asia (minus Japan) on November 18, 2010 and Japan on November 20, 2010.

The Kinect is similar to the PlayStation Move in that it’s not an entire console – it’s an accessory that works with the existing Xbox 360 console. However, of all the three major motion-sensing platforms, the Kinect is by far the most advanced. Unlike the Wii and the PlayStation Move, it requires no physical controller and is controlled by just your body movements and your speech.

2. Kinect Plus Points

1) No Controller: The best feature of the Kinect by far is that it requires no controller. While the Wii and PlayStation Move do a reasonably good job of replicating real life workouts and sports, you still have to hold a controller or an accessory. With the Kinect, you can run on the spot, dance away or play your favorite sport without worrying about holding a controller. As a result, the Kinect provides you with the most natural exercise experience of all the three motion-sensing platforms.

2) No Accessory Costs: Although the Kinect is more expensive to buy than the Wii and PlayStation Move, this is the one and only cost. Since you are the controller, you don’t need to buy any extra remotes, wands or accessories. You just set the unit up and play. When you consider that a Wii Remote Plus and Nunchuk cost almost $50 and a PlayStation Move Motion controller and PlayStation Move Navigation controller cost almost $60, this can add up to quite a significant saving if you are planning on working out with friends on a regular basis.

3) You Can Use Real Workout Equipment: Another excellent feature of the Kinect is that you can use real workout equipment in the fitness video games. While you can purchase fitness accessories for the Wii and the PlayStation Move, these cannot be used outside the video game. With the Kinect, you can use real dumbbells, real resistance bands and real bats and then carry on using them in the real world once your video game workout has ended.

3. Kinect Drawbacks

1) Expensive: The Kinect is the most expensive of the three motion-sensing platforms, costing around $140 for just the Kinect Sensor with Kinect Adventures and around $400 for an Xbox 360 250GB Holiday Value Bundle with Kinect. When you compare this to the Wii with Wii Sports Resort Bundle (around $175), the PlayStation Move Starter Bundle (around $80) and the PlayStation 3 – 320 GB System/PlayStation Move Bundle (around $350), you’re going to be paying an extra $50 minimum to get your hands on the Kinect. While you don’t need to buy any additional controllers once you have the base unit, if you’re planning on working out alone or are on a tight budget, this is probably not the best choice for you.

2) Requires Lots Of Space: If you live in a small house, then you may not be able to use the Kinect. To use it properly there needs to be a minimum of 8 feet between the player and the sensor. If none of your rooms are large enough to accommodate this distance, then you’ll have to get a Wii or PlayStation Move instead.

4. Kinect Bundles to Get You Started

There are two main bundles available to help you get active with the Kinect – the Kinect Sensor with Kinect Adventures and the Xbox 360 250GB Holiday Value Bundle with Kinect.

1) Kinect Sensor with Kinect Adventures: If you already have an Xbox 360 console, the Kinect Sensor with Kinect Adventures is the most cost effective way of getting started with fitness themed video games in your own home. It comes exactly as the title suggests, with a Kinect Sensor and a copy of the fun-filled, high intensity game – Kinect Adventures. All you need to do is hook the sensor up, insert the game and play. It costs around $140.

2) Xbox 360 250GB Holiday Value Bundle with Kinect: If you currently don’t own an Xbox 360, the Xbox 360 250GB Holiday Value Bundle with Kinect is an excellent purchase. This huge bundle comes with a 250GB Xbox 360 console, an Xbox 360 Wireless controller, 3 month membership to Xbox LIVE Gold, a Kinect Sensor and two Kinect games – the fun-filled Carnival Games and the more active Kinect Adventures. Once you have it set up, you can start getting active right away by dodging and jumping your way through Kinect Adventures. It costs around $400.

5. Kinect Fitness Games to Get You Started And My Two Cents About The Best Fitness Game for Kinect

Despite being released just a few months after the PlayStation Move, the Kinect has a much larger range of fitness games and comes close to the Wii with its selection. There’s plenty to choose from but if you’re struggling to make a decision, the list below highlights 10 of the best:

1) Body and Brain Connection: Body and Brain Connection is an innovative fitness game that gives you both a mental and physical workout. It comes filled with a range of challenges, exercises and mini-games to keep your mind and body sharp. The game allows also tracks all your data, so you can quickly and easily see your progress every time you play.

2) Dance Central 2: Dance Central 2 is the second installment in this massively popular, Kinect exclusive, dance franchise. It comes loaded with 40 dance tunes and includes a fully integrated Music Store which allows you to expand your song library to over 100 tracks. Additionally, it comes with voice commands to create the ultimate, immersive dance experience.

3) Kinect Adventures: Kinect Adventures is a fun-filled adventure game that also gives you a good workout. It contains 20 pulse pounding adventures which will have you dodging, kicking and jumping your way through various environments, including outer space, peaceful mountaintops, roaring rapids and an underground laboratory. The game also offers full two player support and lets you publish your achievements online. This is one of the best fitness game for kinect.

4) Kinect Sports: Kinect Sports allows you to participate in six popular sports from the comfort of your living room; beach volleyball, bowling, boxing, soccer, table tennis and track and field. You can play on your own, cooperatively with other people, competitively with other people or enter the “Sports Party” mode and allow everyone in the room to jump in and out as part of a team effort.

5) Kinect Sports Season 2: Kinect Sports Season 2 is the sequel to the popular original and provides you with a further six sports to play; American football, baseball, darts, golf, skiing and tennis. It comes with single and multiplayer options which allow you to play on your own or against friends and family. This edition also comes with online support so you can challenge your friends or anyone else who fancies a game over the Xbox LIVE network.

6) Kung Fu High Impact: Kung Fu High Impact is one of the funniest and most unique fitness video games you will ever play. In the game you play yourself with boosted abilities and use your entire body to jump, kick and punch your way through foe after foe in a whacky but highly entertaining adventure. The game features 11 comic book story sections and 10 action packed levels. It is one of the best fitness game for kinect.

7) Nickelodeon Dance: Nickelodeon Dance is an excellent game that gets your kids involved with fitness while allowing them to have fun at the same time. It contains 30 different songs which are all performed by popular Nickelodeon characters and a variety of family friendly dance routines. It also includes a specific workout mode which can be used to teach your children about the importance of exercise from an early age.

8) Wipeout In The Zone: Wipeout In The Zone is a videogame adaptation of the popular TV show which has you avoiding obstacles as they come towards you by adjusting the shape of your body. It comes loaded with over 50 obstacles (including “Big Balls” and “Smack Wall Sweeper”) and features commentary from the TV show’s hosts; John Anderson, John Henson and Jill Wagner.

9) Your Shape Fitness Evolved 2012: Your Shape Fitness Evolved 2012 is the flagship fitness video game for the Kinect. It contains over 90 hours of activities, including boot camp, cardio boxing, dancing and jump rope. Additionally, you can create your own workout based on your fitness level, your fitness goals, your preferences and your schedule. I would certainly give Your Shape Fitness Evolved 2012 the honor of the Best Fitness Game for Kinect.

10) Zumba Fitness Rush: Zumba Fitness Rush allows you to enjoy the excitement of a Zumba class from inside your own home. It comes loaded with 42 new routines and music tracks (10 of which are exclusive to the Kinect), 24 different dance styles, 10 different dance environments and six Zumba instructors (three of which are exclusive to the Kinect). It also comes with a range of online features, support for voice controls and a two player cooperative mode.

6. Kinect Fitness Accessories to Enhance Your Workout

As discussed above, the Kinect does not require a controller. This adds a whole new level of flexibility to your video game workouts as you can use a wide range of real life fitness equipment in them. The list below highlights five real life pieces of fitness equipment that can be used in conjunction with the Kinect:

1) Black Mountain Products Resistance Band Set: The Black Mountain Products Resistance Band Set is a simple but effective way to incorporate extra resistance into your Kinect workouts. The set comes with ankle straps, a door anchor, an exercise chart and a carry case for all the resistance bands.

2) Bowflex SelectTech 1090 Adjustable Dumbbells: The Bowflex SelectTech 1090 Adjustable Dumbbells are a top of the range dumbbell set that can be used to add between 10lb and 90lb of resistance to each arm during your video game workouts. They can be used during various fitness games including EA Sports Active and Your Shape Fitness Evolved.

3) Definity HHP-001 Pair of Push-Up Bars: The Definity HHP-001 Pair of Push-Up Bars allow you to perform deeper push-ups and give your arms and chest a better workout when performing this exercise. They are constructed from chrome plated metal and have slip resistant, foam covered handles to ensure that you keep your balance and grip as you workout.

4) Thera-Band Comfort Fit Ankle/Wrist Cuff Weight Set: The Thera-Band Comfort Fit Ankle/Wrist Cuff Weight Set can be used to add extra weight to your legs and arms as you workout on the Kinect. They come in 2lb, 3lb and 5lb sets and using them couldn’t be easier. Simply wrap them around your ankles and wrists, then perform your video game workout as normal with added resistance.

5) Valeo Jump Rope Speed: The Valeo Jump Rope Speed is a basic but functional jump rope that allows you to burn some extra calories as you workout on the Kinect. It measures 10 feet in total but this length can be adjusted to suit your needs and it is constructed from durable, solid rubber with molded handles and foam grips for a comfortable, secure hold.

Summary – Which “Video Games Fitness” Console Is Right For You?

I hope this special report about Video Games Fitness Guide – How To Get Fit Fast By Playing Video Games has proved useful to you and helped you learn how video games can help keep you fit. Choosing the right video game is not an easy decision but you should now have a good idea of the benefits and limitations of each of the three major motion-sensing platforms when it comes to fitness. However, if you are still struggling with this decision, here’s a final summary for each console.

1. Wii As A Console

The Wii’s main advantage is that it has been around a long time. This means it can command a much lower price than the PlayStation Move and Kinect and also has a very large library of fitness games. However, because of its age, the Wii’s graphics and motion detection aren’t at the same level as the PlayStation 3 or the Xbox 360.

Who Is It Good For?

– People on a tight budget (costs less than $200 to get started with the Wii with Wii Sports Bundle).

– People with a family who play video games regularly (largest video game library which has options for the whole family and lots of good games for young children).

– People who get bored with their workouts easily (lots of fitness video games to choose from which makes it easy to change your workout whenever you please).

Who Is It Not So Good For?

– People who want the latest technology (worst graphics and motion-sensing technology of all three major motion-sensing platforms).

2. PlayStation Move As A Video Games Fitness Console

The PlayStation Move’s main advantage is that it has the best motion detection of all three major motion-sensing platforms. However, currently it has the weakest library of fitness video games by far and it also takes the longest of all three motion-sensing platforms to set up.

Who Is It Good For?

– People who already own a PlayStation 3 (costs less than $100 for the PlayStation Move Starter Bundle).

– People who want an accurate workout experience (most accurate motion detection of all three major motion-sensing platforms).

– People who want a more advanced workout experience (most advanced controller of all three major motion-sensing platforms).

Who Is It Not So Good For?

– People who get bored with their workouts (very few fitness games to choose from which makes it difficult to change your workout when you get bored).

– People who lead a busy lifestyle (takes the longest to set up of all three major motion-sensing platforms so if you use it regularly, it can be a real drain on your time).

3. Kinect As A Video Games Fitness Console

The Kinect has two big advantages over the Wii and PlayStation Move. First, it requires no controller which leaves your hands free to focus on the exercise. Secondly, you can use real dumbbells, resistance bands and bats in the actual games. However, this comes at a cost and the Kinect is the most expensive of all three major motion-sensing platforms. Additionally, it is the most space-intensive console and requires a minimum of 8 feet between the player and the sensor.

Who Is It Good For?

– People who already own an Xbox 360 (costs less than $150 for the Kinect Sensor with Kinect Adventures)

– Fitness and sports enthusiasts (you can use your own sport and fitness equipment in the games).

– People who want to workout in groups (since there are no controllers, working out with extra people doesn’t cost any extra).